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Australian Sailing’s Ben Houston to step down from Chief Executive role

Australian Sailing’s Ben Houston to step down from Chief Executive role
May 7, 2025
Sport /

Australian Sailing Chief Executive Ben Houston has announced his departure from the position he has held for six years.

Houston has held his current role at Australian Sailing since 2019 during which time he led the development of a comprehensive 10-year organisational strategy Sailing 2032+, the sustainable management of the organisation through the Covid period and delivered the Australian Sailing High Performance and Pathway Strategy which delivered three Olympic Gold medals and a Silver medal at two Olympic Games (Toyko 2021 and Paris 2024). He has also strengthened Australian Sailing’s respected position in the Australian sporting landscape.

During his tenure, Houston has led the organisation and implemented initiatives that have increased participation, improved support and resources for member clubs and classes, and modernised training for officials and volunteers.

Commenting on his pending departure, Houston noted “it has been a privilege and honour to lead the team at Australian Sailing for the last 6 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.

“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.”

Shevaun Bruland, President of Australian Sailing, noted “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” said 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”.

Australian Sailing is now recruiting for the position via Sportspeople.

Click here for information.

Image: Ben Houston. Credit: Gregg Porteous.

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