Executive team

The executive team is responsible for:

  • implementing our strategy and business plan
  • interacting with government
  • developing the organisation 
Team memberRole 
Brian DaviesChief Executive Officer 
Owen Lewis Director Sport System 
Emma Wilkins Director Finance and Business Services
Graham WilliamsDirector Sport Intelligence and Service Development

Board members

The Welsh Government appoints members to our board. Board members provide leadership, governance and strategic direction for the organisation. Their work includes: 

  • promoting the values of sport and physical activity across Wales 
  • reviewing our investments and activities to ensure we’re meeting our aims and targets 
  • safeguarding public funds 
  • supporting and challenge the executive team 
  • contributing to corporate planning and setting budgets 
Chair - Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE, DL

Tanni has been Chair since 2022. She is a former world record-breaking Paralympian and World Champion in wheelchair racing. She is a Crossbench Peer in the House of Lords. As a peer, she debates on issues including accessibility, welfare reform and sport. 

Vice Chair - Ian Bancroft

Ian was formerly Chief Executive at Wrexham County Borough Council. He first studied Physical Education and Sports Science at Loughborough University. Since then, he has remained involved in sport, both professionally and as a volunteer. In North Wales, he has established a range of sports organisations, including Sport North Wales. 

Board members

Dr Anna Bryant

Anna is Director of Teacher Education and Professional Learning and Reader in Physical Health Education at Cardiff Metropolitan University. She is a former international athlete and previously worked as a secondary PE teacher. She speaks Welsh and has experience across education, teacher development and research in Wales. 

Róisín Connolly 

Róisín is a senior management consultant with over thirteen years of experience. She has extensive commercial leadership experience, with a strong focus on inclusion. She has led a board range of initiatives to improve gender equality in the technology sector. She is also an Independent Governor at Cardiff Metropolitan University. 

Rhian Gibson 

Rhian is Director of Communications, Engagement and Partnerships for The National Library of Wales. She has worked as a senior leader for BBC Wales, S4C, Welsh Gymnastics, NHS and Welsh Government. In her various roles, she has worked to increase participation, diversity and opportunity in sport. 

Martin Hurst 

Martin is a Chartered Accountant with over 30 years of experience in strategy, corporate finance and risk management. He was previously a Partner at EY, guiding global clients through complex transactions. Since 2018, he has worked independently, supporting global advisory firms.  

Phil Newman

Phil has over 30 years’ experience across sport, higher education, local government and health. He is the founder and CEO of Includable Consultancy, helping organisations improve leadership, culture and equality, diversity and inclusion. He has worked across all levels of sport, from grassroots to board roles, with experience in safeguarding and inclusion.

Dr Alison Parken OBE 

Alison was most recently Director of Executive Education at Cardiff University Business School. Her research and work in gender equality has influenced Welsh and UK government policy. She has also been an adviser to the European Institute for Gender Equality. In 2017, she received an OBE for services to equality and diversity. 

Parul Patel

Parul is a legal consultant with international experience in sport, guiding brands, athletes, clubs and governing bodies. She was a senior legal leader at Nike and Pentland Brands and now advises partners of Nike and Premier League clubs. She was previously a non-executive director of Triathlon Cymru, with experience in business, team performance and leadership development.

Owain Schiavone 

Owain is Chief Executive for the Welsh language media organisation Golwg. He is also Senior Editor and Director of Welsh music magazine Y Selar. He had a 20-year career as an amateur footballer and now coaches at a youth level. He is a qualified athletics coach and a member of the West Wales Athletics Committee. 

Sanjiv Vedi OBE 

Sanjiv is an accomplished professional, having worked across the public and voluntary sector. He has extensive experience at strategic and operational levels. Including in risk management, safeguarding, social care and equality. In 2022, he received an OBE for his contribution to voluntary, charitable and public service. 

Nuria Zolle 

Nuria is a Non-Executive Director of Swansea Bay University Health Board. She is an experienced leader with a passion for social justice and community development. She brings extensive experience in the non-profit and public sector. Her work has helped drive real change and progress in the fight against poverty and inequality.  

Board minutes