World Bowls to Move Down Under as Search for CEO Begins

by admin

Original Article published by Aidan Davis – Bowls Australia Communications and Marketing Manager


World Bowls will move its headquarters Down Under, with the sport’s global governing body signalling the arrival of a new era, as it commences its search for a new Chief Executive Officer.

World Bowls President Darryl Clout, a member of NSW’s Marks Point Bowling Club, announced the organisation’s new direction in an advisory to all Member Nations, following a comprehensive strategic review.

The review identified the need to expand the skillset of the organisation’s staffing structure, with greater focus on commercial and business development functions.

As a result of the recommendations, current CEO Gary Smith, who has held the role for over 20 years, will transition to the newly-created role of Chief Operations Officer in order to facilitate the recruitment of a new CEO to steer the sport.

The new CEO will be more experienced and bring greater emphasis to key areas relating to information technology, communications and marketing, revenue raising, broadcast opportunities and strategic planning, Clout advised.

While announcing the global search for the next person to take the reins of the international body, a process which will be managed by experienced Australian-based Executive Search Consultant Michael Catlow, Clout also advised the outcome of two recent Expressions of Interests which will help shape the future of the sport.

The World Bowls Board agreed in principle to relocate the World Bowls headquarters to Australia, to be located in the same premises as Bowls Australia, and additionally, for Bowls Australia to handle all ongoing Marketing and Communications operations on behalf of World Bowls.

Bowls Australia welcome the outcome of the expressions of interests and look forward to working closely with World Bowls’ Board and staff to enhance the marketing and communications functions of the sport globally.