Water Safety New Zealand appoints Glen Scanlon as Chief Executive

The Board of Water Safety New Zealand has appointed Glen Scanlon as the charity’s new chief executive. In this role, Glen will lead the organisation’s work to reduce risks and change behaviour around water in Aotearoa.
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Date
September 17, 2025
Topic
About us

Glen brings a powerful combination of strategic thinking, leadership experience, and deep connection to water in Aotearoa. He has spent the majority of his career in media, most recently as Chief Performance Officer at Radio New Zealand (RNZ).

Before that, Glen was editor of stuff.co.nz, after time spent working internationally at both The Guardian and CNN. He has also served as Chief Executive of the Broadcasting Standards Authority. Throughout his career, Glen has demonstrated a commitment to purpose-led organisations focused on making a tangible difference in people’s lives.

The appointment comes at a time when strong, clear public messaging around water safety is more important than ever. Every year, an average of 85 people lose their lives in preventable drowning incidents. Water Safety New Zealand is confident Glen will bring clarity, energy, and fresh perspective to the charity’s strategic priorities and long-term vision.

As the lead agency for water safety in Aotearoa, the organisation has used data science to assert that drowning can be solved by focusing attention on aquatic education, high-risk groups, and high-risk locations.

Glen will formally commence his role on 10 November2025.  

"I’m excited to work alongside the passionate team at Water Safety NZ, as well as partners, communities, and government agencies to build a culture where every New Zealander takes responsibility for their safety in, on, and around the water."