BRITISH Canoeing has appointed former cricketer Ashley Metcalfe as its new CEO.

The 58-year-old ex-Yorkshire batsman will begin his tenure at the helm of the UK’s leading paddlesports body from June 1.

Mr Metcalfe is currently the CEO of British Weight Lifting – an organisation which has experienced impressive growth in diversity, financial security and membership. He boasts a wealth of experience in steering numerous marketing businesses, and is also the CEO of a natural healthcare company.

“It is a great honour to have been appointed to the role at British Canoeing,” he told the organisation’s website.

“Being extremely passionate about sport and the positive impact it can have on all members of society, this is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established, successful and highly reputable organisation.

“The organisation has a great Olympic and Paralympic tradition and record, as well as enjoying much success across all its paddle-based disciplines.

Praise for canoeing

He also praised the sport of canoeing as a popular recreational activity for an increasingly diverse audience with an important role to play in driving environmental change.

“Building on its achievements over recent years, it is an exciting time for all involved in the sport with lots more potential as the organisation looks to implement its new strategic plan that will ensure the sport remains relevant, accessible and welcoming to all,” he added.

“I’ve had nine fantastic years at British Weight Lifting and I’m proud of what we have achieved and the position the organisation is now in but the time is right for a new challenge.

“When it comes to paddle sports, I am sure I will have a lot to learn but I’m excited to have the chance to play my part, meet all our stakeholders and lead the organisation in the next leg of its journey.”

British Canoeing recently announced a four-year growth strategy called ‘Stronger Together 2022-2026‘, which launched earlier this month.

Welcoming the new CEO, the chair of British Canoeing – Professor John Coyne CBE – said the search for a successor to previous CEO David Joy had been a comprehensive process.

“He has been outstanding in his leadership of British Weight Lifting – not just the competitive success but the growth and breadth of development during his tenure,” he said.

“We were delighted at the volume and quality of candidates that presented themselves and the respect that they showed to the organisation through their interest.”