The Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA) has appointed Gary Stewart as its new Chief Executive Officer, Stewart joins at a transformative time for the IABA, bringing with him a strong track record in leadership, strategy, and sports governance.

He will take up his new role in July after exiting yesterday from his previous role as CEO of Volleyball Ireland.

While there for seven years he oversaw a period of sustained growth and innovation. Under his leadership, the organisation experienced revenue increases from €400,000 to €1.4 million, a successful rebrand, and consistent year-on-year membership growth.

Volleyball Ireland also became the first sports body in the country to win the Carmichael Good Governance Award for its annual reporting practices, and in 2022 was named National Governing Body of the Year at the Irish Sport Industry Awards.

In 2017 Stewart was named in the Sport for Business PwC 30 Under 30, a gathering of this yera’s cohort he will address in Dublin this morning.

Prior to his role with Volleyball Ireland, Stewart served as a Sports Programme Manager with Sport Ireland, where he gained experience supporting grassroots development and strategic planning across national governing bodies.

“It’s a great honour to join IABA, and Ireland’s most successful Olympic sport,” he said.

“There’s no other sport that impacts society and communities in the way that boxing does.”

“Highlighting, supporting, and growing that impact is a very exciting prospect. I’m looking forward to working with the dedicated staff, Central Council, and clubs to continue the great work that goes on day-in, day-out in every facet of the Association.”

“I’m grateful to Niall and the Board for giving me this opportunity at a pivotal time in the life of Irish boxing. I can’t wait to get started.”

Stewart takes up the role during a time of significant progress and momentum for Irish boxing. In recent months, the IABA secured its Olympic future by joining the IOC-recognised World Boxing following a decisive vote by its member clubs.

In April, Jon Mackey was appointed National Performance Director, further strengthening the high-performance structure ahead of upcoming international competitions.

Niall O’Carroll, Chair of the IABA’s Board of Directors, welcomed the appointment as a critical next step in the Association’s growth.

“Gary’s appointment is another exciting step in the development of Irish boxing towards being a gold-standard NGB—across governance, sport, participation, and commercial growth. IABA is ripe for expansion in Gary’s key areas of expertise in brand, marketing, and strategic planning.”

“His previous experience at Sport Ireland gives him deep insight into grassroots challenges and how to drive participation across all levels of Irish boxing.”

“The Board of Directors and Central Council, led by President Anto Donnelly, are looking forward to working with Gary to ensure the brightest possible future for our sport.”

The IABA also extended its thanks to John Nangle, the Association’s Chief Financial Officer, who served as Interim CEO since September 2022. During his tenure, Nangle helped steer the Association through a period of considerable change, including the launch of the 2024–2028 strategic plan In Your Corner, governance reform, and constitutional updates.

“John’s interim leadership ensured much-needed stability,” said O’Carroll. “He laid the foundation for the progressive path we’re now on, and we are grateful for his leadership during a challenging period.”

Stewart’s appointment followed a thorough recruitment process managed by Ascension Recruitment.

 

Further Reading for Sport for Business members:

Check out Sport for Business coverage of Industry Movers

 

SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

His list of achievements is there for all to see and the impact he leaves behind at Volleyball is huge.  Bringing an outside perspective to boxing will be a challenge but one he will meet head on and we have no doubt with great success.

WHAT’S UP NEXT?

Gary Stewart is a guest speaker at this morning’s Sport for Business PwC 30 Under 30 gathering in Dublin.

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