British Rowing Appoints New Chief Executive
British Rowing has appointed Andy Parkinson as its new chief executive officer, joining from UK Anti-Doping, and will take up the post in January 2015.
Annamarie Phelps, chairman of British Rowing, said: ‘I am delighted that Andy will be joining British Rowing as our CEO. Andy brings a wealth of experience and proven leadership capabilities in sporting governance, both national and international. He was impressive during a rigorous and competitive selection process and we very much look forward to welcoming him to British Rowing when he joins us next year.’
Having been the first appointment to the UKAD position in 2009, Parkinson has built a successful career in multi-sport environments.
Prior to his leadership of UKAD, Andy headed the anti-doping operations at UK Sport as Director of Drug-Free Sport (2006 – 2009), having previously been its Head of Operations. He also has experience at the International Paralympic Committee, having been its Medical and Scientific Director (2003 – 2006).
He is also the current Chair of the Ad Hoc European Committee for WADA.
Andy Parkinson said: ‘It has been a privilege to be the first Chief Executive of UK Anti-Doping. I have had the opportunity to work with many highly skilled and committed individuals and am extremely proud of what UKAD has achieved over the past five years.’
‘Rowing has been one of the most successful British Olympic sports and I am very much looking forward to leading the organisation as it strives for greater success, growth and participation at every level. Now is the time for me to seek a fresh challenge and it is an honour to be joining British Rowing as Chief Executive Officer.’
British Rowing has been led by Interim CEO, Neil Chugani, since the beginning of this year, and he will remain in post until Andy Parkinson’s arrival.
Chugani, a World Champion in the sport, as well as a former senior executive at Goldman Sachs, BSkyB Group PLC and BBC Worldwide, took on the role of CEO on an interim basis and played a leading role in the search for a permanent CEO.
One of the first British Rowing activities that Parkinson will oversee in his role as CEO will be the inaugural British Rowing Indoor Championships, to be held in the former Olympic Velodrome on February 8, 2015. More than 2000 competitors and spectators are expected to attend the event in the iconic venue to see British Rowing Indoor Champions crowned across a number of race formats.
