Catherine Clark has been appointed as the next Chief Executive Officer of Paralympics Australia, as the sporting body looks to convert the success of the Tokyo Games into commercial growth and increased Para-sport participation.
Clark will depart her current role as the Chief Executive Officer of Netball Queensland in December, and will step into the new role at Paralympics Australia from 2022. She will replace outgoing CEO Lynne Anderson, who is scheduled to conclude her six-year tenure at the end of the year.
Clark’s career has spanned different sports leadership roles at both a CEO and board director level. She currently serves on the board of Shooting Australia, and previously held a director position with Australian University Sport, and was CEO at Gymnastics Australia and Gym Sports New Zealand.
“It’s an immense privilege to be appointed as Chief Executive of Paralympics Australia,” Clark said. “I am excited to lead this wonderful organisation and to help grow the important work that it does to create opportunities for Australians to engage in Para-sport.
“Australia has a proud history at the Paralympic Games, but the impact of PA’s work extends well beyond the preparation and management of Australian Paralympic Teams.
“I see a unique opportunity to drive increased participation, fan engagement and innovative commercialisation at a time when inspiring stories, strong role models and meaningful partnerships have arguably never been more important.”
Paralympics Australia President Jock O’Callaghan said Clark’s time at the helm of Paralympics Australia will be the organisation’s most important period in its history.
“The PA Board is thrilled that Catherine has embraced our vision and is ready to help lead our organisation through what we believe is the most important period in our history,” O’Callaghan said.
“It is not hyperbole to suggest that the next five years can determine the success of the Australian Paralympic movement for the following 20 years.”
Netball Queensland has noted Clark’s contribution during her time as CEO, saying she has overseen some of the most significant innovations, reforms, and enhancements in the game’s history in Queensland during her seven-year tenure.
“Catherine has re-shaped netball in Queensland, broadening its horizons while proudly celebrating its history. Her visionary leadership will leave a truly powerful legacy,” Netball Queensland Chair Ian Fullagar said.
“Her tireless efforts in advocacy and building strong stakeholder relations in the best interests of the game is evidenced by the immensely strong position it finds itself in upon her departure.”