12 May 2017

ITTF-Oceania is pleased to announce that Christian Holtz has been appointed to the position of Executive Director.

by Wade Townsend

Holtz will be tasked with implementing ITTF-Oceania’s new strategic plan for 2017-2020. The Strategic Plan will help guide and direct the efforts of ITTF-Oceania to further develop and commercialise the sport within the region, with the vision of inspiring excellence in life through table tennis. The efforts will be focused around developing the five pillars of participation, high performance, events, operations, and communications.

“I am very excited to take on this challenge, especially at such a crucial time for ITTF-Oceania as we implement the 2017-2020 ITTF-Oceania Strategic Plan.” Christian Holtz

Prior to taking on his new role, Holtz had been heading the Smash Down Barriers Programme since 2014; an initiative promoting para table tennis and focused on improving the lives of people with disabilities through sport. Before his involvement with ITTF-Oceania, Holtz was a Teaching Fellow at Bond University for almost five years with a background in Sports Management and International Business.

“I am very excited to have Christian join our team. His excellent past work with the Smash Down Barriers Programme and the strong relationships Christian already has with the Pacific region will be a great asset for ITTF-Oceania. I very much look forward to Christian’s contribution.” James Morris, ITTF-Oceania President

The appointment of the Executive Director is the first step in implementing the strategic investment made by ITTF earlier in the year, which will see an investment of significant financial and human resources into the region to assist its commercial growth, and the popularity of the sport.

“I’m very pleased to learn that ITTF-Oceania has moved fast to start implementing their Strategic Plan by hiring an Executive Director, and therefore start moving forward with the Commercial Investment agreement that the ITTF has started to roll out globally. I have heard wonderful reviews about Mr. Holtz and I look forward to discussing more with him and the Oceania team in upcoming meetings.” Steve Dainton, ITTF Marketing & Commercial Director

High Performance and Development