Simon Hayes appointed new chief executive of Sport England

Simon Hayes 740 new

Simon is currently chief executive of HM Land Registry and chief land registrar, a role he has held since 2019. He replaces Tim Hollingsworth, who announced in February that he would be leaving Sport England after seven years as CEO.

Simon brings a wealth of senior experience in organisational leadership to Sport England, having a strong track record in delivering impact and public sector modernisation.

As chief executive of HM Land Registry, he successfully led the organisation through the unprecedented challenge of Covid-19, before rebuilding capacity and capability after many years of under-investment. 

Simon is a passionate sports fan and an ardent supporter of Nottingham Forest. He still plays five-a-side football every week and has recently taken up padel, as well as making sure his three school-age children have similar opportunities to play sport and keep active.

Find out more at Sport England website.

What's new

Funding

Have your say on the future of National Lottery funding

The Government issued Call for Evidence on the future of The National Lottery Promotions Unit…

24 Sept 2026

Major boost for grassroots sport in West Yorkshire as £9.6m…

Sport and physical activity in Leeds has been strengthened by the opening of a multi-million pound…

23 Sept 2026

Campaigns

Celebrating women who found the confidence to be active

For many women, the biggest barrier to exercise isn't always ability. It's the fear of judgment.

21 Sept 2026

Read more news, funding, jobs, courses and events