The recently formed National Sporting Organisation, which represents all cycling disciplines and Australia’s largest participation sport, made the announcement on Friday morning.
Fechner - currently CEO of Netball Australia - start the new role on February 1, with a mandate to develop AusCycling into one of Australia’s most successful sporting brands.
AusCycling Chair, Duncan Murray said Fechner was the ideal leader for a major NSO, particularly one that represents the most significant governance reform in Australian sport for many years.
“During her tenure at Netball Australia, Marne more than doubled revenue, grew the professional league, and led substantial organisational redesign and cultural change. In Marne, we have found a world-class operator to unlock cycling’s potential. She will be fabulous, and we are very excited,” Murray said.
Fechner is a highl- regarded sport executive who has built her career delivering change, innovation and growth at one of Australia’s largest NSOs, Netball Australia. She was awarded Sport Executive of the Year 2016 by CEO Magazine.
During her time at Netball Australia, Fechner oversaw enormous and positive change, including revolutionising broadcast and digital rights, and driving sponsorships.
“I’m really excited to accept the role of CEO of AusCycling," Fechner said.
"The opportunities offered by the new structure are vast and I look forward to working on behalf of every cyclist – from the nervous first-timers to our Commonwealth and Olympic Games teams.
"The explosion in bike sales during the COVID-19 pandemic and the incredible potential of e-sports and virtual cycling means more Australians than ever before can enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of riding.
“Australian cycling has a proud tradition, but has also taken brave and future-facing steps to streamline its governance. I’m honoured to lead a team that will drive evolutionary change for this sport."
