Welsh Boxing announces Independent Chair
The Welsh Amateur Boxing Association (WABA) has announced the appointment of Jason Harborow, as its second independent Chair.
The four-year term will commence immediately following the 2025 AGM. The membership will be informed that Jason replaces outgoing Chair, Paul Thorogood, MBE.
Jason is an advisor and consultant on a diverse range of sport, culture and entertainment projects in the UK, USA, Middle East and SE Asia. Among his prominent past involvements, he was CEO of Liverpool European Capital of Culture 2008, Commercial General Manager of Manchester Commonwealth Games 2002, Operations Director of the Rugby League World Cup 2000 and Stadium Director of JJB Sports stadium in Wigan. Since 2016 he has led his own consultancy and advisory firm, Global 13, which specialises in strategic planning, commercial operations and event delivery across the Middle East, he has advised and lead some of the regions highest profile projects.
Jason has an extensive involvement in sport. He is a former professional rugby league player and is currently an NED of Swinton Lions RLFC, he is also the Chairman of the club’s foundation and leads their women’s team. Jason is an advisor to the strategic review group of UK rugby league and chair of the steering group delivering the World Boxing Championships, the sports largest ever event, currently taking place in Liverpool.
Jason has a keen understanding of the interface between sport, business and community. While not from a boxing background he spoke knowledgeably and enthusiastically about the sport. The panel found him to be strong on personality, credibility and leadership skills and was impressed with his ideas for stakeholder engagement, innovation and commercial development.
Speaking on his appointment, Mr Harborow said: “I am delighted and honoured to be offered the opportunity to lead Welsh Boxing as its Chair. I would like to thank outgoing Chair, Paul Thorogood, MBE, for all that he has done for Welsh Boxing over the past four years. I am excited at the prospect of working with such a highly skilled and knowledgeable board supported by WABA’s professional and experienced Executive team.”
On welcoming Mr Harborow to his new role, Colin Metson, Chief Executive of Welsh Boxing said: “Following an extensive search process, Jason emerged as an exceptional candidate who has greatly impressed the Board. He has a deep understanding and considerable experience of leading organisations and he brings particular skills that will only benefit Welsh Boxing in the future. As an enthusiastic sportsman, we welcome him as the new Chair for Welsh Boxing, and I look forward to working closely with Jason in the coming years.”
This project was supported through investment from Sport Wales