The Australian Sports Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of Jerril Rechter AM as its Chief Executive Officer.

Jerril joins the Foundation at a significant moment for Australian sport. With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, and philanthropic investment playing an increasingly important role in supporting athletes, clubs and communities, her leadership will help shape the Foundation’s next phase of growth.

Leadership shaped by purpose and performance

Jerril brings over 20 years of executive experience across sport, government, health promotion and the corporate sector. She has previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Basketball Australia, Chief Executive Officer of VicHealth, and held senior leadership roles with The Walt Disney Company.

She currently serves as Vice President of the Western Bulldogs Football Club, a Director of IPC Health and a member of Chief Executive Women. Throughout her career, she has been recognised for building partnerships that deliver both organisational strength and community impact.  

Australian Sports Foundation Chair Professor Sarah Kelly OAM said Jerril’s appointment reflects the Board’s ambition for the organisation’s future.  

“Jerril is an exceptional leader with a proven ability to drive strategy, innovation and partnerships across complex environments,” Professor Kelly said.  

“Her experience across sport, government and purpose-driven organisations makes her uniquely placed to lead the Australian Sports Foundation as we continue to grow philanthropic support for athletes, clubs and communities. 

“As we look ahead to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, there is a real opportunity to elevate the role of philanthropy in Australian sport. Jerril brings the capability and relationships to realise that opportunity.

Professor Kelly also acknowledged the contribution of Interim CEO Ryan Holloway, thanking him for his leadership and stewardship during the transition period.

Advancing sport’s impact across Australia

With almost 40 years of enabling tax-deductible giving to sport, the Foundation plays a central role in how athletes and community clubs access philanthropic support across the country.

Jerril said she was honoured to take on the role and to lead an organisation that plays such a central role in the sporting ecosystem.

“I am deeply committed to strengthening the ability of sporting organisations and athletes to access sustainable philanthropic funding, and to lead an organisation that supports and enables them to thrive,” Ms Rechter said.

“Sport has a unique capacity to strengthen community wellbeing, and I am committed to advancing initiatives that harness its power as a catalyst for social change across Australia.”

Jerril will commence in the role on 16 March 2026, marking the beginning of the Foundation’s next phase of leadership.

Download the full media release here.