18 Feb 2009Watmore named as new FA chief executive

Football Leagues/ Association and Governance

Ian Watmore has been appointed as the new chief executive of the Football Association, it was confirmed today (February 18th).

Watmore, 50, will succeed Brian Barwick in June, when he departs his current post as permanent secretary for the Department of Innovation, Universities and Skills.

After coming out on top following an interview process which incorporated three candidates, the lifelong Arsenal fan expressed his satisfaction at the prospect of taking up his new role.

He said: "I am delighted to be joining the Football Association as chief executive. It is a great challenge and one I am really looking forward to.

"With [chairman] Lord Triesman and the board, Fabio Capello and the FA's staff, I want to ensure we are achieving success on and off the pitch across all levels of the game."

Watmore, who is also a member of the English Institute of Sport board, worked in the IT industry for 24 years before his more recent involvement in politics.

Barwick left the FA in December after nearly four years as chief executive.

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