The new independent director has joined the sport organisation for a four-year term as the first person to hold the position on the Board.

"I am excited to be joining the World Netball Board," Mills said.

"The World Netball Board has set an ambitious vision and agenda and I look forward to contributing to the delivery of the recently completed strategic plan.

"I have seen first-hand how netball is an integral part of communities and enhances the lives of millions of players and fans.

"I have a long-time interest in improving the commercialisation of women’s properties and this role provides a great opportunity to apply my experience in this area."

Mills is the founder of Tenka, a global sport and entertainment consultancy, and holds 20 years of experience in the commercial sector.

At Gemba Group and Turnstile, which are under Tenka ownership, he was responsible for a project team developing the commercial strategy for Netball Australia.

Other roles include working as marketing director at Adidas in Australia and working with FIFA and World Rugby in London.

"Congratulations to Rob on being elected as our independent Board director,” Liz Nicholl CBE, the World Netball President said.

"We are delighted to welcome Rob to the World Netball family, and I know his strong strategic skills, commercial experience and global expertise will add significant momentum to our commitment to developing and growing our sport and its reach, revenue and impact."