Danny Townsend, who announced his resignation as Chief Executive of Australian Professional Leagues last week has been named the Chief Executive of SRJ Sports Investments, a new vehicle created by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) to further grow the Kingdom's presence within global sport.
Announcing the appointment, SRJ advised that “Townsend brings 26 years of experience in the sporting sector, with a proven track record in building successful global businesses in the sport and entertainment sector.
“In his new position, Townsend will use his extensive industry experience to lead SRJ’s strategic direction, playing an important role in driving the organisation’s growth in the local and global sports investment sector.”
Welcoming Townsend to his new position, SRJ Chairman, Bander Bin Mogren stated “we are delighted to welcome Danny as the CEO at SRJ Sports Investments. His impressive achievements in the global sports industry position him as a strong leader.
“Danny will help drive SRJ’s ambitions to deliver long-term impact through strategic, sustainable investments.
“The Board of Directors are confident in Danny’s leadership and strategic vision for the organization, and we look forward to achieving great success together.”
Looking forward to his new role, Townsend added “I welcome the opportunity to build on the strong foundations of SRJ, as we pursue exciting avenues to drive fan engagement, encourage greater sports participation and unlock game-changing opportunities in the region and beyond.
“Saudi Arabia’s sports sector is growing at pace. I’m looking forward to being part of an ambitious team focused on creating new experiences that can be enjoyed at home and away, delivering value to all stakeholders.”
SRJ was launched in August 2023 by the Public Investment Fund to accelerate the growth of the sports sector in Saudi Arabia and the MENA region.
It most recently signed an investment agreement with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) to acquire a minority equity stake in the PFL and launch the PFL MENA, a new regional league, to nurture the local and regional talent pool in martial arts and promote gender equality in sport.
SRJ was launched in August 2023 by the Public Investment Fund to accelerate the growth of the sports sector in Saudi Arabia and the MENA region. It most recently signed an investment agreement with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) to acquire a minority equity stake in the PFL and launch the PFL MENA, a new regional league, to nurture the local and regional talent pool in martial arts and promote gender equality in sport.
Image: Danny Townsend. Credit: SRJ Sports Investments.
About the author
Nigel Benton
Co-founder/Publisher, Australasian Leisure Management
Nigel Benton is the co-founder and Publisher of Australasian Leisure Management, Australia and New Zealand’s only magazine for professionals in all areas of the leisure industry. Having established the magazine in 1997, shortly after his relocation to Australia, he has managed its readership rising to over 11,500 and its acceptance as the industry journal for professionals in aquatics, attractions, entertainment, events, fitness, parks, recreation, sport, tourism and venues.
In 2020, he launched the new Asian Leisure Business website.
Among a range of published works and features, his comments on a Blog (blogspot) from 2007 to 2011, when this website went live in its current form, may be interesting to reflect back on.
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