We’re thrilled to announce the appointment of David Morris as CEO.
Created in 2020 by Emma Pocock, David Pocock and government relations expert Lachlan Crombie, FrontRunners is at the forefront of the movement connecting athletes and the sport industry with climate action.
Since inception, FrontRunners has established a reputation for positive impact, mobilising and inspiring athlete advocacy through The Cool Down and Duty of Care campaigns, and producing collaborative research such as the Rings of Fire report ahead of the Paris Olympics.
David Morris joins after 13 years at the Environmental Defenders Office (EDO), including five as inaugural CEO of EDO Australia-Pasifik.
David first worked with FrontRunners on 2024’s landmark Sports, climate change and legal liability report. A collaboration between FrontRunners and the EDO, it is the most comprehensive analysis of climate risk for sport organisations in Australia.
“‘Sport, climate change and legal liability’ is our most impactful piece of work to date,” said FrontRunners’ founding CEO Emma Pocock.
“David’s expertise was crucial in helping the industry understand climate action is not a nice to have, but a necessity for managing risk within their businesses. His knowledge, leadership and executive experience make him the perfect person to lead the next chapter of our work.”
David has a deep connection to sport. He grew up playing cricket, Aussie rules, and was deeply involved in the surf lifesaving community. He is now heavily involved in junior sport through the participation of his kids.
“Finding an organisation working at the intersection of a lifelong passion and the defining challenge of our time is a rare, compelling combination,” said new FrontRunners CEO David Morris.
“Sport has an imperative to respond to the complex challenges of climate change. We’ve seen the power of sport to drive important changes - particularly where courageous athletes use their voices. Helping sport navigate the challenges of climate change and strengthening the voices of those pushing for change is an incredible opportunity”
“Emma leaves big shoes to fill, but happily for all of us is not walking far away. I’m delighted that she’s decided to remain on the FrontRunners board.”
FrontRunners Chair Rebekah Giles welcomed David’s appointment. “At a time when climate risks are escalating rapidly, being able to draw on Dave’s expertise will be a huge benefit to Australia’s sport industry,” Rebekah said.
“This appointment is absolutely the right next step. For FrontRunners and for Australian sport, David is a seasoned leader with the skills to meet the moment.”
Enquiries: FrontRunners communications and media director Tim Fisher
0414 893 313 tim@frontrunners.org.au
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