Sporting Equals, the UK’s leading charity promoting race equality and meaningful inclusion in sport and physical activity, is pleased to announce the appointment of its new permanent Chief Executive Officer.
The appointment marks an important moment for the organisation as it moves into a new phase of delivery, influence and growth, underpinned by a refreshed strategy focused on creating a sporting landscape in which ethnically diverse communities are not only represented, but are able to influence, belong and thrive at every level.
The incoming CEO brings strong sector experience and leadership, with a track record that will help Sporting Equals build on its work across leadership and governance, community engagement, research and insight, and wider systems change across sport and physical activity.
Viveen Taylor will formally take up the post at the beginning of September 2026
Dr Howard Haughton, Chair of Sporting Equals, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Viveen Taylor to Sporting Equals at such an important moment in the organisation’s journey. She brings strong sector experience, leadership and insight, and we are excited about the next phase for Sporting Equals as we move forward with a new strategy and renewed focus on impact, influence and delivery.
Sporting Equals has come through a significant period of transition, and we have strengthened our governance and financial systems. We have taken the opportunity to reflect, reset and sharpen our direction so that we are better placed to deliver the influence and impact that the sector needs from us. Our ambition is not simply to be part of the conversation on race equality and equity in sport, but to help drive the structural change that is still urgently needed.
We want to see a sporting landscape in which race equity is taken seriously at every level, where ethnically diverse communities are not only visible, but are able to access opportunity, influence decision-making, progress into leadership, and experience environments where they genuinely feel they belong. That means moving beyond statements of intent and towards stronger accountability, better systems, more inclusive cultures and a clearer focus on outcomes.
I also want to thank Nik Trivedi for his leadership as acting CEO. Nik has played a key role in navigating the organisation through a significant period of transition, maintaining key relationships, supporting the Board, and helping to lay the foundations for this next chapter.”
Viveen Taylor said:
“I’m delighted to be joining Sporting Equals as CEO and to have the opportunity to lead an organisation with a strong track record of championing race equality and advocating for ethnically diverse communities.
“Sport and physical activity have the power to unite people and foster a genuine sense of belonging, yet we know that inequalities, barriers to participation and under-representation persist for many communities.
“Together with our partners and stakeholders, we will build on Sporting Equals’ legacy to drive positive change and help create a more equitable sporting system for future generations.
“I look forward to listening, learning and working collaboratively to ensure Sporting Equals continues to be a trusted voice, a catalyst for progress and a champion for the communities we serve.”
Sporting Equals has played a leading role in championing race equality in sport and physical activity, working with communities, governing bodies, system partners and sector stakeholders to challenge inequalities and create more inclusive environments.
With a refreshed strategy now in place, the organisation is focused on deepening its impact across five key areas: diverse leadership and governance, inclusion by design, community power, insight and accountability, and mental health, wellbeing and psychological safety.
The appointment of a permanent CEO represents a significant step in strengthening the organisation’s long-term capacity and influence as it continues to work with partners across the sector to drive meaningful and lasting change.
Notes to Editors:
About Sporting Equals
Sporting Equals is the UK’s leading charity promoting race equality and meaningful inclusion in sport and physical activity. The organisation works to ensure ethnically diverse communities are able to participate, influence, lead and thrive at every level of sport and physical activity.
Media enquiries:
Ellie Bradwell
Marketing and Communications Manager
ebradwell@sportingequals.org.uk
