"Sheffield Search has been privileged to partner with Volleyball NZ in the appointment of Debbie Hyland to the chief executive role. Debbie’s deep connections to the sport and its communities, her skills to provide relevant financial stewardship, her appreciation of the crucial governance/executive partnership and a sharp, strategic mind all shone through in the recruitment evaluations.
Thank you to Cris Phelan, Chair who provided support and guidance throughout the process." - Ian Taylor, Managing Director, Sheffield North Island.
The Board of Volleyball New Zealand is pleased to announce the appointment of Debbie Hyland as Chief Executive.
Debbie has served as Acting Managing Director since March 2025, leading the organisation through a period of significant change while maintaining momentum across participation, events, performance programmes and strategic planning.
Her appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment process and reflects the Board’s confidence in her leadership, experience and vision for the future of volleyball in Aotearoa.
Volleyball New Zealand Board Chair Crispin Phelan said Debbie had provided stability and direction during a particularly challenging period for the organisation. “Debbie stepped into the Acting Manager Director role at an important time for Volleyball New Zealand and immediately provided stability, clarity and direction. “She has earned the trust of our staff, members, partners and stakeholders by making difficult decisions when required, while keeping the organisation focused on what matters most for the sport. “The Board was looking for a leader who understands both the opportunities and the realities facing Volleyball New Zealand. Debbie brings a strong understanding of our volleyball community, a commitment to partnership and a clear plan for building a sustainable future. “We are delighted to confirm her appointment as Chief Executive.”
Debbie said she was honoured to be appointed and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the volleyball community. “During my time as Acting Chief Executive, the organisation has needed to demonstrate resilience and adaptability as we have worked through financial pressures affecting Volleyball New Zealand and the wider sporting sector. “Throughout this period, I have continued to be inspired by the passion and commitment of our regions, clubs, schools, volunteers, athletes, coaches, officials, partners and staff. “Our focus now is on creating a strong and sustainable future for volleyball. This means strengthening our organisational foundations, delivering value to our members, growing opportunities to participate and ensuring our communities and whānau have the support they need to thrive through volleyball.”
Debbie’s appointment comes at an important time for Volleyball New Zealand as it continues to implement its He Ara Whakakotahi 2030 Strategic Plan. Under her leadership, Volleyball New Zealand will continue to balance financial sustainability with investment in community participation, competitions, athlete pathways and performance programmes.
As one of the world’s most widely played and accessible sports, volleyball has significant opportunities for continued growth in Aotearoa. The Board looks forward to working alongside Debbie, the volleyball community and key partners to realise that potential.
Cris Phelan
VNZ Board Chair
About Debbie
Debbie is of Te Ātihaunui-a-Pāpārangi descent and was raised in Kawerau, where she developed a strong foundation in community sport. She went on to represent New Zealand in indoor volleyball at Oceania, Asian and World Championships and holds national titles at both club and secondary school level. A mother of three, Debbie is a qualified accountant (FCCA, London) and holds Strategic CFO credentials from the University of Auckland. As a professional director and accomplished executive leader, she brings deep local, national and international experience to creating sustainable intergenerational impact.