Vicsport has poached a member of British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s staff to be its new chief executive.
Elyse Jenkins has served as Mr Starmer’s chief policy adviser (home affairs, justice and sport) since 2022.
Originally from Tasmania where she worked for the department of justice, Jenkins has spent the past decade in the UK serving in roles such as deputy chief of staff to the Deputy Prime Minister and as head of sexual violence policy and commissioning.
She also held a voluntary role with AFL London, as head of development for women’s football in the UK.
Outside of work, Jenkins is also a director of the UK-based charity, Youth Sport Trust, as well as being a keen runner, and volunteer guide runner for blind and visually impaired athletes.
Jenkins said she was incredibly excited to lead Vicsport into a new era.
“Having seen firsthand how sport can drive positive change, I’m looking forward to working alongside our members and government partners to ensure Victoria remains the best place to be involved in community sport,” she said.
Vicsport chair, Jason Hellwig said he was very excited to have appointed someone of Jenkins’ calibre.
“With our new strategic plan beginning in 2026 and a myriad of opportunities and challenges awaiting us in the near future, this is a great time for Elyse to join the business,” Mr Hellwig said.
“I know she will be a confident and a capable leader for not only Vicsport but the entire Victorian sporting and active recreation industry.”
Jenkins replaces Lisa Hasker OAM who has served as Vicsport chief executive since 2018.
She begins on 27 January.
