Nichole McCulloch will step down as Chair of the BAFA board after seven years in the role, with the search for a new Chair now underway.
During her tenure as Chair, Nichole has played a key role in the leadership of the organisation, overseeing the professionalisation of core areas of the association, the appointment of CEO Chad Ehlertsen, and the securing of crucial investment from funding partners.
Nichole joined the board as Chair in 2018 and guided BAFA through the Covid pandemic, while strengthening the organisation’s standing both in the UK and internationally, and positioning the sport to launch its new strategy leading into LA2028 and beyond.
“After seven years in the role, I believe I have now delivered on the mandate I set out to achieve when I took on the role of Chair, and that this is the right moment to hand over the reins to new leadership,” Nichole said.
“The organisation is in a far stronger and more stable position, and the timing feels appropriate to support a positive and well-managed transition.”
Senior Non-Executive Director Rob Lawson will also step down from his role on the board after taking on increased professional commitments in his position as CEO of the MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club).
CEO Chad Ehlertsen added: “I am immensely grateful for the leadership and ambition that Nichole has given American football over the past seven years.
“The continued growth and stability of the sport have been thanks in no small part to the efforts of Nichole and the board, and I look forward to a smooth transition as we welcome a new Chair.
“Rob has been incredibly influential at board level across BAFA and has been particularly instrumental in developing and resetting our financial position. His contribution and leadership in this area have been vital to the organisation’s progress.”
Applications for the position of BAFA Chair are now open. Please begin your application via the vacancies section of our website.