Sport England have appointed Simon Hayes as their new chief executive. Simon replaces Tim Hollingsworth, who announced in February that he would be leaving Sport England after seven years as CEO.

Simon brings a wealth of senior experience in organisational leadership to Sport England, having a strong track record in delivering impact and public sector modernisation. Simon is currently chief executive of HM Land Registry and chief land registrar, a role he has held since 2019.

As chief executive of HM Land Registry, he successfully led the organisation through the unprecedented challenge of Covid-19, before rebuilding capacity and capability after many years of underinvestment.

He has accelerated HM Land Registry’s transformation into a much more modern, digital and customer-focused organisation, built around its groundbreaking Strategy 2022+, which is helping to drive the development of a world-leading property market in England and Wales.

Simon Hayes said:

"I’m incredibly excited to lead Sport England and spread the message about the rewards of physical activity. I believe passionately that the benefits of sports and activity should be accessible to everyone regardless of their postcode, background or bank balance. Sport England’s mission has never been more relevant to our national priorities as we strive to create a healthier and happier nation."

Emma Tatlow, CEO at Active Lincolnshire commented:

"As an Active Partnership and Sport England system partner, we work closely with Sport England to bring the Uniting the Movement strategy to life here in Lincolnshire. Their recent commitment of additional funding for place-based work in Boston and East Lindsey will enable us to tackle the deepest inequalities by supporting people who face the greatest barriers to being active. We look forward to continuing this important work under the leadership of Simon Hayes. We extend our thanks to Tim for his dedication and impactful leadership over the past seven years.”

Simon will join Sport England in September. Phil Smith, executive director of partnerships at Sport England, will be interim CEO to cover the short period until Simon joins following Tim’s departure on 31 July.

Find out more about Simon Hayes and his appointment including responses from Sport England Chair Chris Boardman, and Minister for Sports, Stephanie Peacock on Sport England's website.

Read more about Uniting the Movement in Lincolnshire here

Read more about the new Place Based investment in Lincolnshire here.