Chris Grant Becomes Sported Foundation Ceo
Sport for development charity, the Sported Foundation, has announced the appointment of Chris Grant as its new chief executive, replacing Adam Parr.
As chief executive, Grant – who joins Sported with over 20 years’ experience in the fields of strategy and performance, programme management, coaching and change – will be responsible for the strategic leadership and growth of the charity, in addition to the on-going development of Sported’s membership offering.
Sported currently supports over 2,800 grassroots sports clubs which deliver Sport for Development programmes; the development of its services will ensure its members continue to have access to the highest quality services and tools to facilitate their growth, improve their effectiveness, and most importantly, change more young lives through sport.
Sported’s long-standing aim to professionalise and champion the Sport for Development sector will continue to be served through the cultivation of existing partnerships, and attracting new partners and investment through evidence-based advocacy.
Sported was founded in 2008 by Sir Keith Mills GBE, former Deputy Chairman of LOCOG, as his personal commitment to deliver the legacy promises of the London 2012 Games.
Mills, who is also chairman of trustees of Sported, said: ‘I am delighted to welcome Chris to Sported. He has a strong track record leading organisations and implementing change, but more importantly, through his experience at International Inspiration, Youth Sport Trust and FRE Flyers, a comprehensive understanding of the Sport for Development sector and the challenges of our members. His knowledge, industry contacts and facilitation skills will be a huge asset for Sported and I am confident that under his leadership the charity will go from strength-to-strength.’
Chris Grant added: ‘As a passionate advocate for the power of sport to change lives, it is fantastic to be joining Sported. The charity helps some amazing sporting projects, enjoys support from some of the leading names in the industry and is committed to demonstrating the importance and effectiveness of Sport for Development programmes.’
‘I honestly believe that there is no greater catalyst and tool to achieve progress across the spectrum of challenges and opportunities facing our communities than sport. The work that our members and mentors are doing in their local communities is already changing the lives of thousands of young people around the UK. But they need more support, and we need to demonstrate to government and to the public that every pound sensibly invested in Sport for Development will deliver a significant cost saving to society – not to mention all the less measurable benefits such as improved employability, health and well-being.’
