England Squash enters new era as new Chair Mark Jeffreys is appointed

We’re starting a new chapter at England Squash as we say goodbye to Professor Joy Carter who steps down as Chair after nine years.

Joy’s leadership has shaped a period of significant progress and renewed purpose for England Squash. As we look ahead, we’re excited to welcome current Board member Mark Jeffreys into the role following a robust and open recruitment process that focused on identifying an exceptional individual to lead the organisation through its next phase of growth and development.

Joy has led our organisation since 2016 with integrity, compassion and a deep commitment to the sport. Under Joy’s leadership, we’ve made significant progress including putting diversity and inclusion at the heart of what we do, making the sport more sustainable, opening up the game to new and diverse communities and supporting players to enjoy squash at every level.

As she steps down, Joy shared these words:

"As my time as Chair of England Squash comes to a close, I’m genuinely humbled by the opportunity I’ve had to help guide this fantastic organisation.

"It’s been a big part of my life and, while I’ll undoubtedly miss it, I’m excited to see where the sport goes next. This feels like a real turning point for squash in England and I have every confidence in the board and staff team that will help take it forward.

“I’m thrilled to be passing the baton to Mark, whose vision, leadership and commitment to the game make him the ideal leader for the next period - England Squash is in excellent hands.

“I’ve had the chance to work alongside an extraordinary group of people who care deeply about the sport and the community it serves and that’s something I’ll always carry with me. It’s been a real joy and privilege to work alongside two gifted CEOs - Keir and Mark.

“I am particularly grateful to Andy Light and Eamonn O’Rourke who were appointed to the Board alongside me and will also be leaving having completed the maximum number of years permissible.

“To everyone I’ve worked with - thank you. It’s been an absolute honour to stand alongside you and I’ll continue to cheer England Squash on with enormous pride."

As we thank Joy for her inspirational leadership, we’re thrilled to welcome Mark as our new Chair. As Director of Sport and Physical Activity at Birmingham City University, Mark led the development of a growing and thriving sport infrastructure. With over 30 years in sport and education - and current coaching responsibilities with the English Universities Women’s Rugby 7s team - Mark brings outstanding leadership, coaching insight and a strategic mindset.

On taking up the role, Mark said:

“It is a great honour being appointed Chair of England Squash and I will strive to build on the excellent work carried out by Joy during her tenure along with the current and other outgoing members of the board.

“It is a very exciting time for the sport as we move towards the Olympics in 2028 and we develop a new strategy aimed at growing the game and bringing our fantastic sport to new audiences. It is great to welcome three new board members to the team - Matt Lyons, Jonathan Halliwell and Will Chignell - who bring a wealth and breadth of experience to the board that will help us reach our goals. I am looking forward to working with the whole squash family in my new role.”

This transition also marks the departure of Andrew Light and Eamonn O’Rourke from our Board, and we’re deeply thankful for the wisdom and insight they’ve brought to our organisation.

As Joy, Andrew and Eamonn depart, we’re excited to welcome three new Non-Executive Directors, each bringing fresh perspectives and specialist experience that will help guide us through this next period:

• Matt Lyons draws on more than 20 years’ experience in private equity and board leadership, working closely with management teams, investors and business owners to unlock potential and drive results. A lifelong squash player and team captain, he’s as passionate about the sport as he is about good governance.

• Jonathan Halliwell has 17 years of strategic leadership in commercial partnerships, audience engagement and sports marketing, having worked with Xbox, ASICS, and Heineken. He’s also a proud member of Coolhurst Squash Club, a volunteer community coach, and a parent to two young squash players.

• Will Chignell brings a broad wealth of experience in marketing, brand and commercial strategy, revenue growth and participation. With senior roles at the RFU and consultancy experience across more than 30+ sports brands - including UK Sport and the ECB, Will’s expertise will be a real asset to the organisation as we grow our reach and connect with new audiences.

This leadership transition comes at a time of renewed momentum for squash, with a growing focus on widening access, strengthening grassroots participation, and preparing for the sport’s inclusion in the LA 2028 Olympic Games.

With a refreshed Board and a new strategy on the horizon, we’re excited to build on Joy’s impactful legacy and continue working hard to bring the enjoyment and power of squash to even more people across the country.

Meet the Board