A message from CRU’s Chair, David Braga

Meet the next CEO of CRU: Nick Hood

Nick comes into this role with over 20 years of experience in Christian ministry and senior leadership, shaped by gospel conviction, strategic insight, and operational expertise across camping, student and church ministry contexts.

Nick’s connection with CRU began as a teenager at Lake Macquarie, attending CRU Holiday Camps with friends. In 2001, he joined CRU’s Ian Holt Memorial Fellowship Program (now most commonly known as the Summit Program) as a trainee, gaining hands-on experience in camp leadership, outdoor education, and ministry to children and youth. He later became a full-time camp director, leading teams and regularly speaking on school camps.

Across his career, Nick has held a range of senior roles within and outside of CRU. At CRU, he has served as Director of CRU Holiday Camps and Director of Camps Ministry Training & Operations, leading major ministry initiatives, recruiting and developing staff and volunteers, and driving strategic and operational improvements. Beyond CRU, Nick has served in senior roles in church and university ministry contexts where he regularly led teams of all ages, taught the Bible, shared the gospel and mentored young people.

Nick holds a Master of Divinity (SMBC) and a Master of Leadership (AUCD/ACOM), a Bachelor of Teaching / Bachelor of Health and Physical Education (UON). He is a graduate of the Arrow Leadership program and holds qualifications in outdoor recreation, workplace training and assessment.

Nick is married to Lorelle, and they have four children. They are active members of Lake Mac Evangelical Church and have previously been part of Anglican churches in Sydney and Islington Baptist Church in Newcastle. 

Nick is passionate about sharing the great news of Jesus, equipping people for ministry and raising up servant leaders. He loves teaching God’s word and is known for his collaborative leadership, strategic thinking and deep commitment to Christ-centred ministry.