The Board of Welsh Cycling has appointed Anne Adams-King as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Anne brings 30 years’ experience in sports management, having begun her career as a swimming coach in Wales, then becoming a Coach and Development Officer in Hounslow, West London, and moving into broader sports development.
A successful sportswoman with an impressive history of achievement, Anne has competed as an international swimmer at the 1976 Montreal Olympics, a European Championships (1974) and represented Wales twice at the 1974 and 1978 Commonwealth Games.
Her wealth of experience includes managing relationships and leading programmes and initiatives for the Sports Council for Wales (Sport Wales), the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA), and Pentathlon GB.
Anne said: “I am very pleased to be joining Welsh Cycling in a significant period for Welsh sport.
“Whilst I appreciate the challenges that the role brings, I'm looking forward to applying my experience to play a part in building on Welsh Cycling’s strengths and making the most of opportunities to create a successful and sustainable organisation.”
In 1990 Anne made the move to the Sports Council for Wales, initially in local development before taking a lead national role managing relationships and services with national governing bodies.
She was appointed Director of English Programmes for the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) in 2004. During this period she led a number of national initiatives, implementing elements of the UK Coaching Framework to ensure a consistent and high quality delivery of swim programmes across the country.
Anne joined Pentathlon GB in early 2012 to prepare the strategy and funding submission for 2013-17 alongside managing the development team. She also sat on the Board of British Swimming for a period as independent member.
Her passion continues outside of sport, and admirably, Anne has sat as a member of the Interim National Skills Academy Board.
Nick Smith, Chair of Welsh Cycling, said: “Anne has exactly the right sports management skills and experience that Welsh Cycling need to take it to the next level.
“I’ve no doubt that our members, clubs, volunteers and staff will enjoy working with Anne and will appreciate the benefits that she brings. We’re delighted to have her on board.”
Laura McAllister, Chair of Sport Wales said: “Cycling is enjoying a golden period in Wales in terms of elite success on the track, including two new World cycling champions in Becky James and Elinor Barker.
“We have also reported significant increases in participation of over 20% since London 2012. Anne will take on the challenge of building on this success and making Wales a nation with a network of thriving cycling clubs and opportunities that can continue to produce top level elite athletes.”
It is hoped Anne will be in post by June, ahead of the summer season. In the meantime, Marcus Kingwell, Interim Chief Execuitve Officer, will continue to assist Welsh Cycling until Anne's post commences.
