Meet Our CEO, Board & Grant Assessment Panel

Joined as CEO in 2020, following more than a decade working at The FA, where he led successful work in key areas such as strategy development, communications and, international and corporate affairs. He previously chaired the Football Foundation Advisory Group in 2018, which helps facilitate co-operation between the Foundation’s funding partners to ensure the organisation has the greatest impact in the areas where it’s needed most. Robert was also a Board member for the Rugby League World Cup 2021/22 and is a Trustee for the Twinning Project.

Chairman since January 2020, having previously served as a Trustee. Previously, CEO of The FA, United Biscuits, and CEO of PepsiCo UK/Ire. Currently also Non-Executive Chairman of the Chapel Down Group and Non-Executive Director at Froneri.

Joined the Board in September 2020, as an independent Trustee. She has always championed the positive impact that sport can have on people’s lives and has worked for Sport Scotland, Sport England and the NHS, as well as the Commonwealth Games, the Ryder Cup and Fulham Football Club Foundation. Currently at England Rugby and committed to increasing the number and diversity of players. Karen represents the Foundation Board on the Audit, Remuneration and Governance (ARG) Committee.

Wais currently chairs The Gym Group plc's Remuneration and Sustainability committee, and serves as a Non-Executive Director at Reach plc, participating in pivotal committees. Additionally, he holds an iNED position at Snapper Shoppers and operates as a Partner at Samaipata. Previously, he led operations at JUST EAT and Treatwell, and served as CEO of Push Doctor. 

Chief Executive of the Premier League since 2019, Richard overseas all elements of the Premier League’s operations and commercial enterprises and is responsible for the continuing success of the world’s most watched football league. He joined the Premier League as Director of Sales and Marketing in 2006 and was later appointed as Managing Director in 2015 and Interim Chief Executive in 2018. 

Served on the Football Foundation Board since October 2008, making him the longest serving Trustee. He is also Chair of the Premier League Stadium Fund and represents it on the Football Foundation Audit Remuneration and Governance (ARG) Committee. He is a Chair of the Premier League’s Football Board and Legal Advisory Group, as well as The Football Association Premier League Medical Care Scheme. A Solicitor by profession, currently a Senior Partner of McCormicks Solicitors of Harrogate.

As CEO of The FA, he is responsible for the National Governing Body, 24 national teams, FA Cups and grassroots football. He joined The FA in 2016 as Chief Commercial and Football Development Officer and increased annual revenue by over £100m. Mark was previously CEO EMEA for Fuse Sports & Entertainment. 

Joined the Board in February 2018, also serves on The FA Board, the Chair of the National League and a Council member of Sussex County FA. He was formerly a player and manager of Bognor Regis Town FC and continues to serve the club as its General Manager and Vice-Chair.

Former adviser to the Education Secretary, Home Secretary, Mayor of London and two Prime Ministers. Her main policy interests are sport, education and culture. She is also on the Sport Honours Committee and the board of Sport England. 

Chief Executive of Sport England since 2018, previously Chief Executive at the British Paralympic Association. As well as his Football Foundation role, he’s a Council Member of the University of Bath and a Member of the International Paralympic Committee’s Paralympic Games Committee.