The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has announced on Thursday the appointment of Craig Nicholson as Head of World Para Swimming.

Born in Great Britain, Nicholson’s previous role was as Para Swimming Performance Pathway Manager at British Swimming, an organisation where he worked for 16 years.

Nicholson is also a World Para Swimming classifier and educator. Since 2015, he is a member of the World Para Swimming Classification Advisory Group.

During his work at British Swimming, Nicholson was one of the 15 names selected to be part of the 2017-2019 UK Sport International Leadership Programme (ILP).

The development initiative is aimed at high-level British sports administrators and retired athletes who are seeking to make an impact in international sport.

As Head of World Para Swimming, Nicholson will be reporting to World Para Sports Managing Director Christian Holtz.

On Nicholson’s appointment, Christian Holtz said:

“The appointment of a Head of World Para Swimming is part of the continuous development of the sport and we are really happy to see Craig Nicholson joining our team. Craig’s experience and knowledge of Para swimming classification, and high-performance programmes will be vital in the implementation of the 2021-2024 World Para Swimming Strategic Plan.”

Craig Nicholson, Head of World Para Swimming, said:

“I am really excited to be taking up the role as Head of World Para Swimming. I have been involved in Para swimming for a number of years, as a classifier, a member of the Classification Advisory Group and through my role in a National Federation. I am now looking forward to engaging with the Para swimming community to continue to build, grow and develop opportunities for the sport across the world”.

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) is the global governing body of the Paralympic Movement.

The IPC supervises the organisation of the Summer and Winter Paralympic Games, and serves as the International Federation for ten sports, for which it oversees and co-ordinates the World Championships and other competitions, including swimming.

The IPC is committed to enabling Paralympic athletes to achieve sporting excellence and to developing sport opportunities for all persons with a disability from the beginner to elite level. In addition, the
IPC aims to promote the Paralympic values, which include courage, determination, inspiration and equality.