Football West announces appointment of former Perth Glory captain Jamie Harnwell as new Chief Executive

Football West has announced today that former Perth Glory captain and record-appearance holder Jamie Harnwell has been confirmed as its new Chief Executive, succeeding outgoing postholder James Curtis, who is stepping down after almost six years in the role.

Following a playing career that saw him become Perth Glory’s record-appearance holder, playing 256 times for the A-League Men side and helping them become back-to-back national champions,

Harnwell has been with Football West for over 12 years, most recently as Chief Football Officer.

Prior to that he was Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Development.

Announcing the appointment, Football West Chairman Sherif Andrawes advised “Football West is delighted to announce Jamie Harnwell as our new CEO.

“Jamie is a real football person, from his days as a star player at Perth Glory to becoming a top coach in both the A-League Women’s and NPLWA - Men’s competitions. He has transferred the drive and dedication needed to succeed on the pitch to his roles at Football West.

“In addition, Jamie also possesses the necessary skills and vision to drive Football West forward as we continue to grow the sport in WA and we move towards the opening of the State Football Centre and the 2023 Women’s World Cup and beyond.

“Jamie has worked closely with James Curtis for a number of years, and in terms of senior management, it is great that he has been able to ‘learn on the job’ and is well placed to lead the team at Football West over what will be an exciting period for our sport in WA.

“Following an extensive nationwide search and the assessment of several excellent candidates, Jamie proved to be the stand-out. We look forward to him leading Football West in the years ahead and continuing the terrific progress achieved under James Curtis.”

Looking forward to his new role, Harnwell stated “it is exciting to become CEO of Football West and I’m looking forward to the challenge.

“We are the biggest team sport in the country in terms of participation and we are in a fantastic position. But there is still plenty of potential for further growth, especially here in WA.

“It has been terrific to work with James Curtis and gain invaluable experience, now I am ready to put my own stamp on the position.”

Harnwell will work in tandem with Curtis until the latter’s departure on 31st March 2022.

Images: New Football West Chief Executive Jamie Harnwell (top) and below, from left: Football West Chairman Sherif Andrawes, Jamie Harnwell and James Curtis. Credit: Football West/FotoEnzo.