Paker will take up his new position with the ASA following a handover period after the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games which end on August 3.

The Oxford University modern languages graduate took over as chief executive of CGE in October 2011 replacing Ann Hogbin, who had been with the organisation for nearly 20 years.

"Adam Paker has worked tirelessly to lead Commonwealth Games England for three years and has helped transform us into a first-class organisation," said Sir Andrew Foster, chairman of CGE.

"Adam has recruited an excellent team and they have transformed our approach by working closely with sports to deliver the support that athletes need.

"Adam will lead Commonwealth Games England through the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and will remain for a handover period after the event to ensure a smooth transition.

"We wish Adam every success at the ASA where his knowledge and experience will be a great asset to them."

Prior to joining CGE, Paker worked for sports marketing company International Sport and Leisure, which collapsed in 2001 before going on to become a senior executive with FIFA, directing the football governing body's marketing and television department until he left in 2005.

He went on to work for gambling company 888.com, where he was head of global sports, helping to negotiate sponsorship deals with Seville Football Club in Spain and the title sponsorship of the World Snooker Championship, one of the largest sports sponsorships ever by an internet company.

He has also worked for Haves Sports, Hill & Knowlton and Threshold Sports, the company co-launched by double Olympic rowing champion James Cracknell.

Adam Paker joined the CGE in 2011 as the organisation began building up to the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games ©CGE



"I have thoroughly enjoyed my three years with Commonwealth Games England during which time the organisation has transformed into a high-performing, professional outfit," said Paker.

"For the next few months my entire focus is on driving Commonwealth Games England forward and delivering a highly successful Commonwealth Games for Team England.

"I am extremely proud to have been given the role of chief executive of the Amateur Swimming Association.

"I want to help the organisation get more people swimming and look forward to making a real impact."

The ASA is the national governing body for swimming, diving, water polo, open water, and synchronised swimming in England and its chief focus is the growing of participation and development of swimming from grassroots to elite level.

Paker will replace David Sparkes, who is set to stand down from the role to concentrate on his position as chief executive of British Swimming.

Sparkes had combined both roles at the ASA and British Swimming for the past 20 years.

Commenting on the appointment of Paker, ASA chairman Edward Lord, said: "We are delighted to have appointed Adam Paker as our new chief executive and he will start with us after the completion of his duties with Commonwealth Games England.

"We recognise the tremendous impact that he has made to CGE and his passion for increasing participation in swimming was obvious through the rigorous selection process.

"We are sure that he will bring dynamic leadership to the Amateur Swimming Association and look forward to him joining us in the autumn once he has completed his current responsibilities".

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related Stories
March 2014: Sparkes gives up dual role in British Swimming
December 2012: The devil is in the detail for England's success at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games
August 2011: Former FIFA director appointed new chief executive of Commonwealth Games England
July 2011: Exclusive: Commonwealth Games England chief executive to step down
May 2011: Exclusive: Management shake-up at Commonwealth Games England as adverts for top posts go out