Jo Hutton has been appointed today (10 Nov) as General Manager of ILT Stadium Southland.

She replaces Nigel Skelt, who abruptly resigned in April 2023 after 24 years, citing medical and personal reasons.

However it was later revealed that Skelt had been the subject of an employee complaint that had resulted in a confidential settlement.

Making the announcement today (10 Nov), Stadium Southland Limited (SSL) Interim Chair, Hayden Rankin, said the board had been pleased with both the calibre and number of applicants, but that Hutton had really stood out for her leadership, management and strategic thinking skills.

“We are looking forward to seeing the results of these in due course,” he said.

Rankin also paid tribute to Operations Manager and Interim General Manager Ryan Sycamore for both stepping up and his leadership.

Hutton said she loved the stadium and have often spoken about how fortunate it was to have such an incredible and versatile world class facility in Southland.

"It’s fantastic how it can host top-level sporting events, shows and community festivals as well as being a hub for many recreational activities that promote wellbeing across our community.”

“I already have plans in mind to take the stadium into the future but [also] to lead a business and a team well."

“I already feel that there is a vibrant team culture at the stadium so I will be working to enhance that by ensuring that our people feel valued and supported, right from day one.”

Hutton will officially start in the new position on 8 January 2024, and plans to spend her first days getting to know the team, meeting with key stakeholders and funders, and learning about the inner workings of the business.