Leadership succession to continue long-term growth at Football West

Football West has announced that CEO James Curtis will be stepping down from his position after more than five years in the role and has commenced succession planning as he transitions from the position.

Football West Chairman Sherif Andrawes praised Mr Curtis’ strong leadership and commitment to delivering a long-term legacy for football in Western Australia since commencing in the role in 2016.

“James has been an outstanding CEO and his focus on driving long-term growth, investment and community benefit have contributed to a bright future for football,” Mr Andrawes said.

“His commitment to working with all parts of the WA community and government to engage with football and being a leader driving diversity, inclusion and engagement has ensured football is positioned well for the future of the game.

“With significant achievements including funding for the long-awaited WA State Football Centre, securing the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in WA and establishing the Football Futures Foundation, there have been many successes during his tenure.”

Football West CEO James Curtis
Football West CEO James Curtis addresses media after Perth was named as a host city for the 2023 Women's World Cup. WA Sports Minister Tony Buti, Football West Chairman Sherif Andrawes and Junior Matilda Hana Lowry look on. Photo by Football West/FotoEnzo

Mr Curtis said it is the right time to step down from the role and to transition leadership, with Football West strongly positioned for leveraging record growth.

“We have built a great team across Western Australia that is well positioned to continue building on our strong foundations. After more than five years in the position and rebuilding from the impact of COVID-19, we are ready for a new CEO to implement and deliver our future strategy," Mr Curtis said.

“I have enjoyed working closely with our Board and our valued partners across government, corporate and the football community to deliver major milestones for the game in WA and establish strong partnerships across Asia for WA football.

“We have a vibrant and passionate football community that will continue to grow on the back of strong clubs and volunteers and our dedicated Football West team.”

Football West CEO James Curtis
Football West CEO James Curtis with students at Ngalangangpum School in Warmun during a trip to the Kimberley in 2020. Photo by Football West/FotoEnzo

Mr Curtis will continue his involvement with football as a Non-Executive Director of Football Futures Foundation, chaired by Nick Tana, and supporting the transition to the new CEO.  

Football West has commenced an internal and external search for the company’s next CEO.

Football West CEO James Curtis
Football West CEO James Curtis at this year's Africa Down Under Cup, with Mining Minister Bill Johnson, Football West Chairman Sherif Andrawes and Football West Program Lead - Community Melissa Gmeiner. Photo by Football West/FotoEnzo

Filed Under: Community News