Announcement of Appointment- Chief Executive Officer

Colin is an experienced leader in sport, social enterprise and community development, with more than thirty years’ experience supporting participation, wellbeing and organisational growth. He brings a strong track record of strategic leadership, partnership building and delivering initiatives that connect people to sport and physical activity.

Colin previously served as Chief Executive of Colin Glen Trust, where he led the transformation of Colin Glen Forest Park into one of Northern Ireland’s leading outdoor destinations. Over a sixteen-year tenure, he developed a sustainable model that combined environmental stewardship with innovative leisure, sport and community provision.

This included the creation of high-quality sports infrastructure such as Northern Ireland’s first interactive golf driving range and dome-covered 3G pitches, alongside landmark attractions including Ireland’s longest zip lines and the country’s only alpine coaster. Together, these developments generated the income required to sustain and protect a publicly accessible forest park, while also improving community mental and physical wellbeing through increased engagement with nature and activity.

Sport has always played a central role in Colin’s life. He previously competed in athletics, Gaelic games and indoor rowing. He has also made a significant contribution to coaching, working in ladies football at club level for almost ten years and supporting county juvenile development squads over a three-year period.

He also introduced Parkrun to the woodland trails of Colin Glen Forest Park, helping to create an inclusive and accessible entry point into running and athletics within the local community.

Earlier in his career, Colin held roles promoting Belfast as a destination for major events, including involvement in the launch and promotion of the Odyssey Arena and the redevelopment of the Grand Opera House.

Commenting on the appointment, Phillip Snoddy, Chair of Athletics Northern Ireland said:

"We are delighted to welcome Colin as Chief Executive. He brings a strong understanding of sport, community engagement and organisational development, alongside a proven ability to lead and deliver. We look forward to working with him as we continue to strengthen athletics and support athletes, clubs, coaches and officials across Northern Ireland."

Commenting on his appointment, Colin said:

“I am delighted to take on the role of Chief Executive of Athletics Northern Ireland. The strength of athletics lies in its clubs, coaches and volunteers, and I look forward to working with them to grow the sport and support athletes across Northern Ireland.”

Colin lives in County Down with his wife and two daughters and remains actively involved in grassroots sport and community activity.