British Rowing Announces Chairman Of Internal Review
Today, British Rowing announces Nicola Palios as Chairman of the internal review Project Board.
Palios has been an Independent Director of British Rowing for three years, is Co-owner and Vice Chairman of Tranmere Rovers Football Club and has spent 24 years working in law and international financial services.
Joining Palios on the Project Board will be Andy Parkinson, CEO of British Rowing. One further person, who will be independent of British Rowing with professional skills in governance and experience of rowing at an elite level, will be announced in due course.
The Project Board will be responsible for appointing a Project Team, which will include a balance of professional skills, leadership and an insight into an elite sport programme environment. These skills will be provided by external and independent consultants.
The exact process for the review will be determined by the Project Board in consultation with the Project Team. A final report will be produced with recommendations to be considered by the Board. The key findings will be made public at the appropriate time.
The purpose of the review is to ascertain the current culture of the High Performance programme to make recommendations related to the ongoing development of that programme, and to ensure that British Rowing demonstrates the highest ethical, professional and sport governance standards.
The review will begin with immediate effect and the final report is expected to be delivered to the Board of British Rowing by 30 November 2016. The timing is designed to minimise the impact on rowers and support staff in the final stages of preparation for the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and to offer employees and team members involved in TeamGB’s activities the opportunity to be part of the review. It is not the intention of this review to actively seek information prior to 1 January 2008.
Commenting on the review, Andy Parkinson, CEO of British Rowing said: “I am fully aware of the current and appropriate scrutiny on sport governing bodies when it comes to governance and culture. British Rowing, as the National Governing Body, will lead a thorough and robust review. We fully recognise the need for external scrutiny, which is why we will utilise the skills and expertise of independent professionals within elite sport and beyond.
“In the meantime, it is important to recognise that our team is overseas in the final stages of preparation for the Games. I have full confidence in our talented rowers and dedicated support staff as they seek to once again inspire the nation in Rio.”
British Rowing will not comment during the review.
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Media Enquiries:
Please contact Kenny Baillie, Director of Partnerships and Communications on: kenny.baillie@britishrowing.org or +44 (0) 7818 576 132.
