Smyth, who has been chair since 2017, today welcomed Hawksworth\u2019s appointment.<\/p>\n
\u201cVince\u2019s deep experience running large-scale businesses with significant workforces, customer bases, and capital investment profiles will be a valuable asset as Spark continues to execute its strategy and deliver value for shareholders.\u201d<\/p>\n
Justine Smyth (right) with Spark’s CEO, Jolie Hodson. Photo\/NZME<\/p>\n
Hawksworth said Spark had a \u201cproud history, talented people, and a clear strategy focused on delivering long-term value for customers and shareholders\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cI look forward to working alongside the board and management team as we continue to improve performance and deliver stronger returns for shareholders over time.\u201d<\/p>\n
Spark reports its full-year results on Thursday. The Herald reported this morning that Spark employees were bracing for another round of potential redundancies<\/a> as part of the business unit split to connectivity and digital services.<\/p>\n Spark chief marketing and corporate affairs officer Leela Ashford said it had recently completed consultation with its senior leaders to \u201calign leadership roles with this new structure\u201d.<\/p>\n Earlier, the Herald asked Salt Funds\u2019 managing director Matthew Goodson if he expected a leadership change<\/a> at Spark.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019d expect that will be on the agenda for the next chair,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n \u201cJolie Hodson has had over seven years as CEO and has had senior roles at Spark since 2013, so it would be a natural time to transition to a new leader.\u201d<\/p>\n