Ian Beattie appointed new Chair at UK Athletics

Wednesday 22nd September 2021

Photo via Lindsays

AGM: David assumes new role as we say thanks to Ian

Following the conclusion of an open recruitment process, UK Athletics are delighted to confirm the appointment of Ian Beattie as new Chair.

The appointment follows an inclusive and open recruitment process, in accordance with the Code for Sports Governance.

With specialist input from Brewster McBride Executive Search, advertisement activity was significant and widespread, and specifically designed to attract a pool of diverse candidates.

The appointment also received the unanimous recommendation of the Athletics Appointment Panel (AAP) and was approved by the UKA Board.

Everyone at scottishathletics warmly congratulates Ian on coming through the process and wishes him all the best in the role.

Ian joins as Chair and will be working with outgoing Chair Nic Coward, the Board and the executive team on a managed transition over the next few weeks, taking the role on in full following the October board meeting.

Ian, of course, is a former Chair of scottishathletics and served nine years in that role from 2012 to earlier this month.

A member and endurance coach of Harmeny Athletic Club, Ian has previously been a member of Portobello, Strathearn Harriers, Central AC and Troon Tortoises, serving on the committee of most of those clubs.

He is Race Director of the West Highland Way Race, having completed the event eight times, and has completed more than 100 marathons and 100 half marathons. He is also a Chartered Accountant and Chief Operating Officer of Lindsays Solicitors.

 

Ian Beattie said: ‘I am delighted to have been appointed to the Chair position at UK Athletics.

‘It is an exciting time to be taking on the role, and I look forward to helping the organisation provide a positive environment for athletes, coaches, officials and everyone else involved in the sport.

‘Having previously chaired one of the Home Country Athletics Federations, I recognise the importance of all the bodies in the UK working together, with each of us performing our roles to the highest possible standard.

‘My vision is for athletics to be a sport where everyone pulls in the same direction and feels proud to be part of the athletics family in the UK.

‘It is encouraging that the structures are now in place to allow that to happen, and I look forward to helping UKA play its part in achieving this in the years ahead.’

Ian Beattie chaired our AGM last weekend before David Ovens assumed the role

Senior Independent Director Penny Avis, who oversaw the recruitment process said: ‘On behalf of the Board of UK Athletics, I am delighted to welcome Ian as our new Chair.

‘Ian’s deep athletics knowledge and his passion and energy for the role, combined with his chair and business experience will be a fantastic asset for us.

‘We are very much looking forward to working with him on the delivery of our part of the Athletics Unified strategy for the whole of the sport, in which Ian played a pivotal role, and the UK Athletics ‘Age of the Athlete’ Operational Plan.

‘I would also like to take this opportunity to give our huge thanks to Nic Coward, who joined us first as interim CEO and then as Chair for the past 18 months.

‘Nic’s leadership, significant sports experience and wise counsel helped steer the organisation through a period of considerable change, such that we now have the platform and structures in place to build for the future. The Board wish Nic all the very best with his future endeavours.’

UK Athletics launch Athletics Unified

 

Tags: Athletics Unified, Ian Beattie, UK Athletics