Myra Nimmo to leave role as Chair of England Athletics

Myra Nimmo has decided not to apply for the second term of her role as Chair of England Athletics. She will stay in the role until the new Chair is embedded into the organisation.

Myra has led the not-for-profit membership and development body for grassroots athletics and running in England since her appointment in 2016. That four-year term was extended for a further 12 months last June, at the request of the Board, to provide the sport with much-needed continuity and stability amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The former international athlete who competed in both the 1974 Commonwealth Games and 1976 Montreal Olympics, has taken the decision not to continue due to other commitments. She will oversee the transition for her successor to help ensure England Athletics remains fully focused on supporting the athletics and running community ahead of a full return to activity in 2021.

Myra, a Professor of Exercise Physiology and formerly Pro-Vice-Chancellor at the University of Loughborough and then Birmingham, said:

“Together with the executive, the England Athletics Board has completed a difficult but successful period and is about to approve its next 10-year strategic plan. With this in place, it seems a good time to allow a new Chair to lead and support our athletes to a successful Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, 2022 and beyond.”

Steve Grainger, Senior Independent Non-Executive Director at England Athletics, said:

“On behalf of the Board and the staff at England Athletics, we would like to thank Myra for all her hard work and dedicated service, not just as our Chair since 2016, but to the wider sport over many decades. As an international athlete, leading sports administrator and academic, Myra’s knowledge, experience and passion for athletics and running has been a key driving force behind much of what England Athletics has achieved during her tenure. We all wish her the very best for the future.”

The process for recruiting a new England Athletics Chair will commence immediately.
The closing date for applications is 19 February 2021.
For more information, please visit the vacancies section of the England Athletics website.