Sport Bay of Plenty has announced Heidi Lichtwark as the organisation's new chief executive officer today.

In announcing the appointment, Sport Bay of Plenty Board of Trustees chair Grant Utteridge says they are "absolutely delighted" with the appointment of Heidi in the role.

Heidi Lichtwark will begin her new role as Sport Bay of Plenty CEO on March 24.

"Heidi has a strong background in the sport and recreation sector in the Bay region, and a proven ability to forge new relationships," he says.

"Heidi has been a key staff member in our team for the past 10 years and the board looks forward to working with Heidi to achieve our recently revised strategic objectives in the next phase for Sport Bay of Plenty."

Heidi joined Sport Bay of Plenty in 2003 and was recently in a leadership role managing the recreation and health areas of the organisation.

She has an MBA in sports management and continues to study in post graduate organisational development.

Heidi is excited to follow the direction of previous CEO Wayne Werder, as well as Dame Susan Devoy.

"I feel very passionate about our region – the people, places, the history as well as the future.

"Sport Bay of Plenty has a huge depth of skill and knowledge within our staff and I am looking forward to leading the organisation into the next phase.”

Heidi will take up the role from March 24, 2014.