We are thrilled to announce the hiring of two new members to the Bowls England Board.
Louise Mackie and Brock Fordham join the organisation as Independent Non-Executive Directors (INEDs) after a comprehensive recruitment process led by board members, Emily Green and Steve Warren, and including Foster Johnson of the board and Laura Blatherwick from the Bowls England staff team.
Over the past 12 years, Louise has had the privilege of working closely with Bowls England through several Commonwealth Games and Commonwealth Youth Games cycles, supporting athletes, team officials and staff in preparing for competition on the international stage.
Through those experiences, she has developed a real appreciation for the passion, commitment and strong sense of community that makes our sport so special.
“I look forward to bringing my experience in major event operations and elite sport to support the Board and Executive Team, particularly as we prepare for the 2027 World Bowls Championship. I am excited to play a part in supporting the future success of bowls in England.”
Brock brings experience across the international sports industry, with a particular focus on major events and broadcast at national and international levels. He has held roles with organisations including England Netball and Tennis Australia, leading the delivery of complex major events.
Brock operates at the intersection of delivery and strategy, working across diverse stakeholder groups to support effective decision making. He brings expertise in strategic delivery and complex stakeholder environments.
“As an Independent Director, I hope to support Bowls England by providing constructive challenge and perspective, with a focus on ensuring sustainable growth and delivering a lasting major events legacy for the sport.”
The additions of Louise and Brock continue a period of change for the Bowls England Board, after the appointment of Jo Doust as Chair and the stepping down of board member James Wurr, who will begin his new role as 2027 World Bowls Championship Event Director later this month.
Jo Doust gave his thoughts on the two new hires:
“The appointments of Louise and Brock brings significant experience and skill into the Bowls England Board. I am thoroughly looking forward to them joining and know that bowls will benefit greatly from their talents and individual perspectives as we move forward with our exciting vision and strategic plan.”
Bowls England looks forward to the next board meeting in June, with the two new directors joining for the first time. There will also be an opportunity for the wider bowls community to meet them at the 2026 National Bowls Finals, held at Victoria Park, Royal Leamington Spa in August.