Key Figures in Sport England's Board Reappointments Stay informed about the influential leaders and decision-makers involved in the recent board reappointments at Sport England. This overview highlights the prominent individuals who play a crucial role in shaping the future of sports in England, focusing on their backgrounds, contributions, and vision for enhancing sports participation and development across the nation. Explore the profiles of these key figures and their strategic...
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Sport England has announced the reappointment of two key figures to its board—Michelle Cracknell and Jason Fergus. Their terms will run from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2028. This article explores their professional backgrounds and contributions to sports and community engagement.
Michelle Cracknell, previously the Chief Executive and Accounting Officer of The Pensions Advisory Service, has established a strong reputation in the financial sector. She served in this role from October 2013 to December 2018, gaining valuable experience in fiscal management.
Before her leadership role, Cracknell held various director positions across sectors, including advice firms and insurance companies. She is recognized as a qualified actuary.
Michelle Cracknell: A champion of financial literacy
Cracknell is passionate about enhancing financial literacy and sees a direct connection between managing personal finances and engaging in physical activities.
She believes that both domains require motivation and strategic planning. Currently, she serves on several non-executive boards, including Fidelity International Holdings, Just Group Plc, Lloyds Banking Group Pension Trustees Ltd, and PensionBee Group Plc. These diverse roles enable her to influence financial strategies while promoting healthy lifestyles.
Board responsibilities and community impact
As a member of the Sport England board, Cracknell is expected to leverage her financial expertise to guide funding decisions and strategic initiatives that align with the organization’s objectives. Her background positions her well to advocate for programs that increase community engagement in physical activities, particularly among underrepresented populations.
Jason Fergus: Leadership in sports development
Jason Fergus brings over two decades of experience in the sports and physical activity sector, making him a valuable asset to the Sport England board. As Chair of the Sport England Investment Committee, he is responsible for ensuring that funding aligns with the organization’s strategic priorities. Additionally, he serves as the Director of Active Essex, overseeing one of the largest Active Partnerships in England.
Fergus played a crucial role in the Essex Local Delivery Pilot (LDP), part of a £100 million initiative by Sport England aimed at addressing long-term physical inactivity in disadvantaged areas. This project has engaged over 30,000 children and families through the Government Holiday and Activity Food (HAF) program, providing insights into innovative solutions.
Strategic thinking and community engagement
Fergus is known for his strategic foresight and ability to build relationships with various stakeholders to promote physical activity at the community level. His commitment to ethical governance ensures that Active Essex operates transparently and responsibly. He also co-founded the Active Essex Foundation, demonstrating his dedication to improving community health through active living.
Fergus’s extensive experience in sports leadership is complemented by his personal achievements as a former sprinter who represented Great Britain at various levels. This background enhances his credibility and fuels his passion for promoting active lifestyles.
Governance and remuneration overview
Board members of Sport England receive a remuneration of £218 per day, capped at £9,000 per year. The appointments of Cracknell and Fergus were conducted in accordance with the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments, ensuring transparency and integrity in the selection process. The Commissioner for Public Appointments oversees this process, which requires appointees to declare any significant political activities undertaken in the last five years. Both Cracknell and Fergus have reported no such activities.
The reappointment of Michelle Cracknell and Jason Fergus reinforces Sport England’s board. Their combined expertise in finance, governance, and sports development is poised to enhance the organization’s ability to promote community engagement in physical activity across England.
