Richard Palmer-Jones appointed to Swim England’s Sport Operation Committee

Swim England has welcomed the appointment of Richard Palmer-Jones to its Sport Operations Committee (SOC).

Richard has an extensive background in sport both inside and outside of aquatics and is currently on the board of directors for the Swim England North East Region.

He takes his place on the committee for the next four years where he replaces Ian Mackenzie who’s term has come to an end.

The SOC reports directly to the Swim England Board and has a wide brief which includes overseeing the effective delivery of the aquatics sports.

It also provides direction on the development of aquatic sports from clubs through to regions, as well as providing guidance and input into the plans to deliver Swim England’s strategy.

Speaking on his appointment, Richard said that being able to positively impact on the pathway is something he is extremely passionate about.

He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to join the committee and I’m excited to work with Joan and the other members to support the aquatic sports.

‘Fostering that special environment’

“As someone who’s been a Club Chair, regional board member and a parent of a swimmer, I’ve been able to see that journey first hand and to have the chance to positively impact that is something which really stood out to me.

“One thing that is really important to me is to help foster that special environment that being in an aquatics club can bring and to help keep people in the sport for longer.

“My daughter fell in love with swimming from a young age and still loves it now so I’m keen to use my experience both in and outside of aquatics to help bring that joy to many others across the country.”

Away from poolside Richard is the owner of PJH Brand Management – a company specialising in brand management and sales in sports apparel across Europe.

He has worked with two of the world’s largest sports brands in Adidas (where he was brand director) and currently Under Armour where he heads the golf division in Europe. He’s also previously worked in marketing for Leeds Rhinos and Leeds Tykes before developing a passion for aquatics through his daughter’s love of swimming.

He went on to hold the position of Chair at Harrogate District and later Richmond Dales Swimming Club where he helped manage the club throughout the pandemic.

He was then encouraged to join the board for the North East Region by Richmond Dales’ coach Keith Hall and has been a vital part in creating and supporting the regions latest strategy.

You can see the full list of Swim England Board and committee members here.