Business development focus for Nzone’s new recruit

Press release from Nzone ‘The Ultimate Jump’
Friday 20 June 2008

Business development focus for Nzone’s new recruit

An award-winning Queenstown adventure operator has expanded its management team with the appointment of Derek Melnick in the newly created role of business development manager.

Originally from South Africa, Derek moved to New Zealand in 2005 from Australia, driven by a desire to live in an alpine environment. He joins Nzone’s 40-strong Queenstown team based at its rural tandem skydiving dropzone.

Bringing considerable marketing experience and business savvy to Nzone’s thriving operation, Derek has 15 years’ experience in a range of management roles in both South Africa and Australia, and a Diploma in Marketing Management.

He was formerly a sales executive in Queenstown’s real estate industry for two years and also completed a year of National Service in the South African Navy.

Robynne Williams, Nzone’s general manager, said she was pleased to welcome Derek to the diverse business development role.

“Derek’s strong background in sales, coupled with his passion for outdoor adventure activities, will bring a fresh perspective and energy to our team.”

Derek said joining Nzone was an easy move because the company culture and philosophy matched his own.

“I have a deep connection to adventure sports and see the tandem skydiving product and Nzone’s brand as a great fit for me. Nzone is a dynamic organisation and an iconic tourism operation that is rapidly becoming synonymous with adventure tourism and Queenstown,” said Derek.

“I hope to add value by growing the distribution channel and developing new and existing business relationships. I’ll also be focusing on strategic sponsorship and marketing opportunities that align with the brand, and helping to coordinate internal and external communications.”

Nzone won the New Zealand Tourism Industry Association’s 2007 ‘Supreme Award’ and the Adventure & Visitor Attractions and Activities categories in the same year. The company has also been recognised by the Chamber of Commerce as Queenstown’s Business of the Year and the 2007 winner of the Excellence in Tourism Award.

ENDS

© Scoop Media