Chief Executive Officer James Johnson to depart Football Australia

Chief Executive Officer James Johnson has advised the Board of his decision to resign.

Mr Johnson’s decision concludes his 5½-year tenure as CEO of the sport’s governing body having overseen, along with the Board and with the support of the Football Australia team and the Australian football community, one of the most successful periods in Australia football history.

During this time, Mr Johnson guided Australian football through the COVID-19 pandemic, with the sport now enjoying all-time high participation numbers. Under Mr Johnson's leadership, Football Australia established the 15-year Vision, delivered record revenue growth, introduced new football reforms including Club Licensing Regulations and key changes to the Player Transfer System, and revamped the Australia Cup connecting the competition to Asia through AFC Club Competitions.

Mr Johnson led Football Australia’s successful bid and hosting of the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023™, which was a globally recognised success and a cultural shift for all sport in Australia. During his tenure, Football Australia successfully secured the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026™ and oversaw the building of Australian football’s men’s and women’s national teams into equally recognisable global sporting brands that achieved their best-ever performances at the FIFA World Cup 2022™ and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™.

Mr Johnson said: "It has been a privilege to lead Football Australia for the past 5½ years, having had the pleasure to work alongside the most talented, committed and dedicated staff, executives and board members.

"As someone who is immensely passionate about Australian football, this decision has not come easy, but I believe the time is right to step down.

"I want to extend my thank you to the Football Australia Board and everyone within the Australian football community for their support during my tenure. Football is a local and global sport so no matter where I am, I will always be here to support Football Australia and Australian football.”

The Board of Football Australia has named current director and former Matilda Heather Garriock to the role of Interim Chief Executive Officer effective immediately. Ms Garriock has also resigned from the Board of Football Australia.

Football Australia Chair Anter Isaac thanked Mr Johnson for his unwavering leadership and dedication during his tenure as CEO of Football Australia. “James has guided Football Australia through extraordinary challenges and leaves a great legacy. We wish him every success for the future,” Mr Isaac said.

Mr Isaac said Mr Johnson had agreed to the Board’s request following his resignation to support the organisation to finalise key projects and will work with the Board and Interim CEO to ensure a smooth transition. Mr Johnson then plans to take a short break ahead of pursuing his next professional opportunity.

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