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4 March 2026  3 min read

Basketball England seeking charismatic, visionary CEO

The organisation has been overseen on an interim basis by Nigel Walker OBE since June 2025. 

The process to find a permanent appointment has been restarted following a period of uncertainty for the sport in Great Britain and amid consultation about its future governance. 

Basketball England Chair Paul Blanchard said:  

“BE has recently launched its new strategy through to 2029 which is ambitious and needs a strong, charismatic successful individual to lead and deliver. The last six months have also seen seismic change within the sport in the UK. 

“The British Basketball Federation, responsible for Great Britain teams and professional leagues, recently went into liquidation. This has meant that BE, with the support of the other Home Country Associations and other key stakeholders, most notably from the professional game, has been managing these responsibilities on an interim basis. 

“In addition to driving the new BE strategy, the new CEO will therefore also play a pivotal role in shaping and establishing the new Great Britain National Governing Body and will be expected to work very closely with the new organisation.  

“To lead this transformation, we are seeking a visionary individual capable of leading and managing genuine change in the sport in the UK - someone with strategic clarity, commercial acumen, and the leadership to inspire and unite.” 

Working with GatenbySanderson, a world-class leadership recruitment firm specialising in the public sector, BE is searching for the right person to lead the organisation forward and shape the future of one of the UK’s most dynamic and inclusive sports. 

As Chief Executive this is the successful candidate's chance to shape the future of basketball in England to:

• Shape Team England’s 3x3 ambitions, support the reform of the GB performance system and help deliver a united and forward looking vision for the sport’s future.
• Lead the delivery of our new strategic objectives for 2025–29 and beyond, ensuring we become an outward-facing, values-led organisation recognised for excellence and innovation.
• Drive commercial growth and sustainability, developing diverse income streams, and ensuring the organisation is financially resilient and fit for the future.
• Champion innovation while honouring the sport’s rich heritage, creating the conditions for long-term growth and relevance.
• Elevate the sport’s voice and influence, deepening our connection with our communities and strengthening our advocacy with national and local partners.
• Lead the effort to double membership over the next four years, one of the most important strategic challenges facing the organisation.

More information and to apply