We announce a significant change in the leadership of British Wrestling, as Shaherah Jordan and Liz Riley step down from their positions on the board following the completion of their second four-year term.
Farewell to Shaherah Jordan and Liz Riley
Shaherah Jordan and Liz Riley have been instrumental in shaping the direction and success of British Wrestling during their tenure. Shaherah was the driving force to establish a consistent and professional brand image for British Wrestling and more recently has been a driving force behind our international relations efforts and has played a key role in our connections with United World Wrestling (UWW) and other nations. Although she is stepping down from her role on the board, Shaherah will remain active in the sport, continuing to lead our international relations group to maintain relationships with UWW and other nations.
Of her time on the board Shaherah said “I am grateful to the British Wrestling members and board for giving me the opportunity to contribute to this community. Although my term as a board member has ended, I’m excited about the prospect of elevating our presence in the international community.”
Liz Riley’s expertise in sports governance and legal matters has been invaluable to our organisation. Her guidance in developing the new governance structure in 2016-17 and support to ensure British Wrestling complies with the Code of Sports Governance are key features of her tenure. While she is stepping down from her role on the board, Liz has generously offered her continued support in her areas of expertise around sports governance and legal matters.
Chief Executive Craig Anthony said “Since joining in 2016 Shaherah and Liz have been instrumental to the development of British Wrestling in their professional approach. The support and guidance they have offered me since my appointment in 2019 have been invaluable. I’m pleased to say that the relationships they have built with the sport will continue past the end of their tenure on the board and I look forward to continuing to work with them closely”
Welcome to Ian Da Cunha and Judith Duffin
Following an open recruitment process, we are pleased to announce the appointment of two new board members who will take the places of Shaherah Jordan and Liz Riley.
Ian Da Cunha joins the board as Senior Independent Non-Executive Director. Ian brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles with various other sporting bodies. His insights and leadership will play a crucial role in guiding British Wrestling towards further success.
Ian commented “I am delighted to join the Board of British Wrestling. Wrestling, with its rich history and deep-rooted Olympic legacy, holds a special place in the world of sports. I am excited to work with the BWA and my colleagues on the Board to foster the growth of wrestling throughout the UK. Together, we will strive to make the sport more inclusive and accessible to all communities, ensuring that the spirit of wrestling continues to thrive across the UK.”
Judith Duffin joins the board as Independent Non-Executive Director for Legal and Welfare. Judith’s background in dealing with sports legal disputes will be invaluable as we continue to develop the sport and navigate legal and governance matters.
Judith said “I am delighted to be appointed as a non-executive Director (Legal and Welfare) of British Wrestling and I look forward to working with the Board in this important role, contributing to the BWA’s continued development and ensuring that safeguarding and welfare remain a key priority for the association and continuing the exemplary work of my predecessor, Liz Riley.
Ian and Judith joined Shaherah and Liz at the latest board meeting on Saturday 13th April as part of the handover process and will be picking up individual conversations as part of their broader induction to the Board.
Chair Steven Esom said “We welcome Ian Da Cunha and Judith Duffin to the board and look forward to their contributions as we strive for excellence in British Wrestling. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Shaherah Jordan and Liz Riley for their exceptional service and dedication to the sport over the years. We wish them all the best in their future endeavours and look forward to continuing to work with them in their new capacities.”
