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2d ago

James Johnson Resigns as Football Australia CEO After Transformative Tenure

Heather Garriock, former Matilda and board member, steps in as interim CEO while the search for a permanent replacement begins.

Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 - Australia Press Conference - Aspire Zone Training Facilities 5, Doha, Qatar - November 23, 2022 Chief Executive Officer of Football Australia, James Johnson during the press conference REUTERS/Bernadett Szabo/File Photo
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Overview

  • James Johnson officially stepped down as Football Australia CEO on May 8, 2025, after five-and-a-half years of leadership.
  • Johnson will stay temporarily to assist with the transition to a new CEO, with Heather Garriock serving as interim chief executive.
  • Under Johnson’s tenure, Football Australia navigated the COVID-19 crisis, secured major broadcast deals, and achieved record financial revenues through corporate partnerships.
  • He spearheaded structural reforms, including the A-Leagues' separation into the Australian Professional Leagues and the creation of a second-tier national competition set to launch this year.
  • Johnson’s global connections helped secure hosting rights for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup, elevating Australia’s international football profile.