The Welsh Judo Association is proud to announce the appointment of Ben Jeffreys as its new Chief Executive, following a competitive and comprehensive recruitment process.

Ben, originally from Newport, brings over twelve years of experience in leadership and sports management. Most recently, Ben served as Chief Executive for Torfaen Leisure Trust, where he led one of the largest leisure operators in South Wales through a period of significant change, transformation and growth.

Prior to this, Ben served as Chief Executive for Pontypool RFC, where he oversaw the most successful period in the club’s history, culminating in three successive WRU National Championship titles and setting the foundations for the club’s eventual promotion to the WRU Premiership and Super Rugby Cymru divisions.

Known for embedding positive cultures and building inclusive partnerships underpinned by values driven leadership, Ben is well-positioned to guide Welsh Judo into its next phase of growth.

On his appointment as Chief Executive, Ben said: “I’m delighted to be joining the Welsh Judo Association and the prospect of leading an organisation in such a values driven sport is incredibly exciting. The emphasis placed on building a positive culture across the organisation and within the sport stood out during the recruitment process and I am hugely appreciative that the Board and team have entrusted me with spearheading the organisation at what is an exciting and pivotal time for the sport of judo. I am looking forward to engaging with the judo community to further develop the growth and success of the sport at every level.”

Chris Emsley, Chair of Welsh Judo Association added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Ben to the Welsh Judo Association. Ben really impressed us during the recruitment process, which came as no surprise given his excellent track record and strong reputation as a senior leader in the sport sector. This appointment marks an important step forward as we continue to grow judo’s impact in Wales, and the UK – building a stronger, more connected community”

Ben will formally take up the role on 7th October. The Board of the Welsh Judo Association, and its staff team would like to thank Tom Hughes excellent work, dedication and leadership as interim Chief Executive in this transition period.