Specialising in public connection, broadcast production, digital strategy, and talent management, I bring a unique ability to translate organisational goals into messages that resonate with people. A communications specialist with a career defined by connecting communities through media, sport, and storytelling. From grassroots radio to national broadcast TV, and professional sport, I’ve consistently delivered content that engages audiences, strengthens organisational identity, and fosters genuine relationships and increased ROI for financial supporters.

Dave Ward

Specialising in public connection, broadcast production, digital strategy, and talent management, I bring a unique ability to translate organisational goals into messages that resonate with people. A communications specialist with a career defined by connecting communities through media, sport, and storytelling. From grassroots radio to national broadcast TV, and professional sport, I’ve consistently delivered content that engages audiences, strengthens organisational identity, and fosters genuine relationships and increased ROI for financial supporters.

Available to hire

Specialising in public connection, broadcast production, digital strategy, and talent management, I bring a unique ability to translate organisational goals into messages that resonate with people.

A communications specialist with a career defined by connecting communities through media, sport, and storytelling. From grassroots radio to national broadcast TV, and professional sport, I’ve consistently delivered content that engages audiences, strengthens organisational identity, and fosters genuine relationships and increased ROI for financial supporters.

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Experience Level

Expert
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Communications & Media Manager at North Harbour Rugby Union
August 1, 2015 - November 1, 2019
Led communications and media strategy; grew Facebook followers from 3,000 to 15,000 with zero budget; created the HarbOURFANS and HarbOURTEAM campaigns; built social platforms from scratch; delivered timely digital content and live game-day coverage; collaborated with coaches and management to produce multimedia stories reflecting the Union's values and community spirit, strengthening sponsorship alignment and fan loyalty.
Producer, Announcer & Sports Broadcaster at NZME (Radio Network) / RADIONZME
January 1, 2013 - January 1, 2018
Oversaw the rebrand of Classic Hits to The Hits, producing Auckland Breakfast Show and National Drive Show. Produced and hosted across NZME stations including Radio Sport and Radio Hauraki, expanding reach into sport and entertainment. Delivered live rugby commentary and produced coverage of international and domestic sport; coordinated talent and VIP interviews. Directed on-air, digital, and social media content to ensure brand consistency and community resonance.
Operations Manager at MediaWorks – More FM
December 1, 2011 - April 1, 2013
Ensured broadcast continuity across seven stations; managed programming logistics and promotional campaigns; reinforced local identity while meeting commercial goals; integrated web and social media updates to extend community engagement beyond the airwaves.
Breakfast Host / Programme Director at BOP FM
June 1, 2009 - January 1, 2011
Co-hosted Bay of Plenty morning show; championed local voices and updates. Directed programming and content strategy to balance mainstream hits with local content, strengthening listener connection and station identity.
Announcer/Producer at Classic Hits Blenheim (TRN)
January 1, 2006 - Present
Hosted and produced local Classic Hits programming, building strong ties with the Marlborough community; delivered live broadcasts and promotions reflecting local culture and events.
Commentator / Broadcaster at Northern Mystics / Northern Stars
January 1, 2016 - January 1, 2018
Provided live sideline commentary and match analysis for netball teams, contributing to national broadcasts and audience engagement.
Commentator at Wellington Phoenix
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2018
Sport broadcaster and commentator for A-League games, delivering on-pitch analysis and engaging audience commentary.
NPC Sideline Commentator at Radio Sport
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2019
Delivered sideline commentary for NPC matches; produced post-match features to national audiences.
Host / Lounge Coordinator at Auckland Rugby Sponsors Lounge
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2018
Hosted sponsor lounges and coordinated sponsor engagement events; strengthened community ties and sponsor relationships.
Commentator at Tasman Club Rugby
January 1, 2022 - January 1, 2023
Provided live commentary for Tasman Club Rugby matches, delivering play-by-play and analysis for local audiences.
Commentator at Tasman Mako / Matatu
January 1, 2025 - Present
Current involvement as commentator for Tasman Mako and Matatu projects.
Contestant at Treasure Island: Fans v Faves
January 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023
Top 4 finish; Raised $10,000 for charity; Most successful ‘Fan’ in franchise history; 15 episodes (~4.5M cumulative audience).
Guest at Get the Name Right
January 1, 2022 - December 31, 2022
Featured guest on Episode 5 – Picton.
Commentator at Shortland Street
January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2016
Featured Extra at Mastercard
January 1, 2014 - December 31, 2014
Richie McAwesome – featured extra (had lines).
MC / Ground / Courtside Announcer (Extra) at Sione’s Wedding 2
January 1, 2011 - December 31, 2011
Club Rugby Commentator at Tasman Club Rugby
January 1, 2022 - December 31, 2023
Commentator at Northern Mystics / Northern Stars
January 1, 2016 - December 31, 2018
Sideline Rugby Commentator at Radio Sport
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2019
Host / Sponsor Lounge Host at Auckland Rugby Sponsors Lounge
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2018
Voice / On-Air Talent at Commercial Voice
January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2018
Producer, Announcer & Sports Broadcaster at RADIONZME (formerly The Radio Network)
January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2018

Education

Diploma in Broadcasting Communications at NZ Broadcasting School – CPIT
January 1, 2005 - January 1, 2006
Diploma in Broadcasting Communications at NZ Broadcasting School – CPIT
January 1, 2005 - December 31, 2006

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Telecommunications, Other