Sue Cardwell, Digital and Communications Manager

The Digital & Communications Manager has a key role in growing and promoting the Paralympic Movement in New Zealand. This role covers PNZ external communications as well as that of PNZ’s managed sports. Success through digital channels such as social media, and through effective publicity are central to the power of Para sport. These enable PNZ’s role in advocating for accessibility, equity and inclusion in sport.  

Key outcomes for the Digital & Communications Manager are equitable media coverage for Paralympians compared to Olympians, leading to increased participation in Para sport, and increased acceptance and inclusion of disabled New Zealanders. 

Before joining the Paralympic family in 2021, Sue worked in digital, brand, marketing and communications roles for various professional services companies in New Zealand, Italy and the UK. One of her proudest achievements is hiring and leading a team of high performers to redesign an important but out-dated legal service for the digital age, successfully taking the service online in time to help Kiwis during lockdown. 

August 2021

MA Hons University of St Andrews, Scotland 

When not following NZ’s incredible Para athletes as they compete around the globe, Sue enjoys getting into the Aotearoa wilderness for camping and hiking with her wife, young daughter and any friends she can talk into coming along. She’s a feminist, a keen cook, an enthusiastic but inexperienced gardener, and an environmentalist.