Hollingsworth, who represented Australia in the 1992 Barcelona and 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, is the first track and field Olympian to occupy the role. 

Prior to Athletics Australia, Hollingsworth spent ten years as a CEO of the Australian Sports Commission and more recently the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria. He also spent over 12 years in government central agencies including as Deputy Secretary at the Victorian Treasury. 

Athletics Australia President, former heptathlon Olympian  Jane Flemming, says she is thrilled to welcome a CEO of his calibre as Australian Athletics continues its journey towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“As an Olympian and someone who knows the Australian sporting landscape arguably better than most, we are thrilled to welcome Simon back to Athletics in an official capacity,” Flemming said in the official Athletics Australia press release. 

“Simon was selected from an outstanding field of candidates and his appointment is a testament to his proven leadership abilities, his understanding of sport and Athletics and his robust management skills. His strategic mindset and commitment to excellence make him the right person to lead our organisation forward as we continue down the road to the Brisbane 2032 Games.”

Flemming also acknowledged the work of incumbent CEO Peter Bromley, who will work with Hollingsworth to ensure a smooth transition into the role.

“Peter has done a sensational job, starting off as an interim CEO and guiding the organisation through the complexities of COVID, the Tokyo Games, reinvigorating our domestic season and seeing a true rise of Australian athletics in both popularity and performance. I’d like to congratulate him on his success and thank him for his contribution to our sport.”

Hollingsworth has been deeply involved in athletics since his retirement as an athlete and is a former director of both Athletics Australia and Athletics Victoria, a local club office holder and former Chair of the Athletes’ Advisory Committee.

He now steps up to take on a new challenge of raising the bar of the sport he connects with most.

“It is a huge honour to be appointed to this role to help lead the sport. Athletics is arguably the most diverse, inclusive and international sport on the planet,” Hollingsworth said.

“Whether it be on the world stage at the Olympic and Paralympic Games, at the local athletic track or on the parks and footpaths around the nation, the ambition is to grow the sport, make it a welcoming community for anyone who wants to be involved and to make the most of opportunities that will come from the Brisbane 2032 runway.”

Hollingsworth will officially step into the role in July.