Swim England confirm appointment of Andy Salmon as new chief executive

Swim England has announced the appointment of British Triathlon’s Andy Salmon as its new chief executive.

Andy, who has been chief executive at British Triathlon for the last six years, will take up his new role at Swim England in February 2024.

He will succeed Jane Nickerson, who announced earlier this year she would be retiring after more than 25 years with the national governing body.

Andy has extensive experience working within sporting organisations, having also been development director and deputy chief executive at Scottish Golf for almost a decade.

He said he was looking forward to starting work at Swim England and ensuring that everyone can ‘experience the joy’ of swimming.

“I’m excited to be taking on this new role,” said father-of-two Andy. 

“Leaving British Triathlon has been an incredibly difficult decision but the opportunity at Swim England is considerable and I’m looking forward to getting to know the Board and my new colleagues.

Extremely proud and honoured

“There is much to do as there are many challenges facing the whole sporting system – and swimming specifically.

“However, it’s a privilege to be tasked with leading Swim England as it embarks on its cultural change journey detailed in the Heart of Aquatics plan.

“By continuing to listen and engage with members and clubs, and being clear and transparent in that work, Swim England can provide meaningful support and resources to the aquatics community.

“Swimming, diving, artistic swimming and water polo are activities which are enjoyed by millions of people of all ages.

“That’s why I’m extremely proud and honoured to be given this chance to help tackle the challenges of accessibility and opportunity so that even more people can experience the joy of aquatic activity.”

Richard Hookway, the chair of Swim England’s Board, said Andy had also sat on several boards which gave him a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing sport.

He said: “On behalf of the Swim England Board, I’d like to welcome Andy to the organisation.

“Andy has a wealth of experience and knowledge which will be invaluable as we look to deliver on the promises made in our Heart of Aquatics plan and implement our new 10-year strategy.

Pass on my congratulations

“I’d like to thank everyone from Swim England, Sport England and Perrett Laver who were involved in the comprehensive recruitment process.”

As Andy is not due to start with Swim England until February 2024, Jane has confirmed she will be delaying her retirement by two months.

She was initially due to leave at the end of December but will remain in post until the end of February.

Jane said: “I’m delighted to be handing over the baton to Andy and would like to pass on my congratulations to him on his appointment.

“He’ll be taking over a wonderful, dedicated team who I know will warmly welcome him to the organisation and support him as much as they have me during my time as chief executive.”

Richard added: “I’m pleased that Jane has agreed to delay her retirement and stay on until the end of February.

“This is to ensure continuity and a smooth transition process with Andy and I’d like to thank Jane for altering her plans and for her wonderful service to Swim England.”