Australian Sailing CEO to step down
Ben Houston. Image courtesy of Gregg Porteous.
Australian Sailing has confirmed that chief executive officer Ben Houston is leaving the organisation after six years in the role.
Houston has held the position since 2019. During this period, he has overseen the development of Australian Sailing’s ten-year organisational strategy, Sailing 2032+, as well as the implementation of its high-performance and pathway strategy. These plans have coincided with Olympic medal outcomes, including three gold medals and one silver across the Tokyo 2021 and Paris 2024 Games.
He has also managed Australian Sailing through the pandemic and introduced changes aimed at modernising the organisation. These include updates to training for officials and volunteers, as well as new measures focused on increasing participation and enhancing support and resources for member clubs and classes.
“It has been a privilege and honour to lead the team at Australian Sailing for the last six years. The organisation is in a very strong position, due to the efforts of the Board, the senior leadership team and the passionate and committed Australian Sailing staff,” says Houston.
“I would like to acknowledge the partnerships with the Australian Sports Commission, Australian Institute of Sport, the State Sports Institutes and our Patrons and Sponsors. I would also like to acknowledge all the people at clubs and classes for their hard work in growing and supporting sailing in Australia.
“This is an exciting time for sport in Australia, and I wish Australian Sailing future success in the lead up to Brisbane 2032.”
“On behalf of the board of Australian Sailing, I wish Ben all the best for his future endeavours. We thank him sincerely for his leadership as well as his dedication and commitment to Australian Sailing over his tenure,” says Shevaun Bruland, president of Australian Sailing.
“We are excited at the opportunity this presents our organisation and we wish Ben continued success in the future.”
The recruitment process for a new CEO is underway.
Leave a Reply