An Asian sports charity has appointed its first permanent chief executive, a coach and trainer who started her own consultancy business.

Shazia Ali took the helm at the Asian Sports Foundation on 1 April, bringing nearly 30 years of research expertise to the role. 

The foundation was founded almost 10 years ago by Jug Johal, who played rugby at the international level for India Rugby.

Ali succeeded the charity’s part-time chief executive, Angus Martin, who led the foundation on a part-time basis for the past nine years, combining the role with running his own consultancy supporting sports charities and community organisations. 

He was previously head of education at The English Football League Trust and general manager at Brazilian Soccer Schools.

Ali currently sits on the board of the industry body the Market Research Society. She is also a judge for the annual MRS industry awards and the Diversity & Inclusion Changemaker and Research Heroes Awards.

According to her website, she has been working as a consultant for 15 years, providing guidance on qualitative research to a range of clients. She also appears as a professional speaker and moderates roundtables, webinars and panel discussions on topics such as diversity and inclusion.

Ali said: “I’m looking forward to bringing together core areas I work in from engaging with and championing communities, curating events and partnerships and creating positive, inclusive cultures through the power of sport. 

“ASF’s core mission is to create positive social change through engaging marginalised communities to be more active. 

“Our unique point of difference is how we empower coaches, leaders and partner organisations by equipping them with tools and learnings to further grow and create change. 

“I’m delighted to take on this role at a pivotal moment of the charity’s growth strategy implementation.”