Carolyn Campbell Appointed as Hockey NSW CEO

Hockey NSW is delighted to announce the appointment of Carolyn Campbell as its next Chief Executive Officer, securing one of Australia’s most respected sports administrators through a highly competitive recruitment process.

Campbell will officially begin in the role in mid-April, following the conclusion of her tenure as CEO of Scouts NSW. She joins Hockey NSW after 15 years as a transformational CEO of Netball NSW, as well as serving as interim CEO at Basketball Australia during a critical period of organisational transition. 

Campbell currently serves as Chair of NSW Rugby League and holds directorships with Volleyball Australia and Bankstown Sports Club. She has resigned as Chair of Hockey One, a position she has held since 2022, to take up this appointment.

President of Hockey NSW Alex El-Shamy said that the appointment reflected the Board’s commitment to securing a CEO with the leadership experience and capability to deliver on its ambitions for the sport.

“The Board was clear that we wanted a CEO with proven experience leading transformation at scale – someone who has successfully managed and grown large, complex member-based organisations, delivered major infrastructure projects, built long-term commercial partnerships, overseen elite pathways and premier competitions, and strengthened governance,” El-Shamy said.

“But we also wanted someone with a genuine connection to, and understanding of, our sport. Carolyn has both – in spades.”

With more than 30 years’ experience in senior executive and governance roles, combined with lifelong involvement in hockey at all levels of the game, Campbell brings a rare blend of professional leadership and first-hand sporting insight to the role.
 
“This appointment is a significant step in aligning strong Board stewardship with outstanding executive leadership. Together, we are focused on strengthening the foundations of the sport – from grassroots participation through to elite performance – and being clear and unapologetic about the standards we set for how hockey is led and managed in this state,” El-Shamy said.

The incoming CEO said she was excited and humbled by the appointment, and that she was energised by the opportunity to contribute to the future of the sport in NSW.

“I’m genuinely honoured to accept the role of CEO of Hockey NSW. This sport has shaped so much of my life, and I’m excited to work alongside our players, volunteers, and community to help hockey thrive across the state,” Campbell said.

“I was drawn to this role because it represents a rare opportunity to make a meaningful impact on a sport I care deeply about. Hockey NSW has strong foundations, passionate people, and enormous potential for growth. The opportunity to strengthen pathways, support our associations and clubs, and elevate the visibility of hockey across the state was incredibly compelling. I’m energised by the challenge of helping shape a sustainable, inclusive, and ambitious future for the sport.”

Campbell has been highly regarded throughout her career as a leader through periods of change, strengthening organisations, improving participation, and delivering sustainable growth while building stronger relationships with community, government, and other partners.

“My leadership style is collaborative, transparent, and grounded in genuine engagement. Members can expect open communication, a willingness to listen, and a commitment to making decisions that support long term success for the sport. I believe in empowering people, building strong relationships, and creating an environment where innovation and accountability are encouraged. Above all, I want our community to feel valued, respected, and confident in the direction we are heading,” she said.

“Hockey has played a critical role throughout my life. It has given me countless memories and experiences across so many different perspectives — as a player, coach, umpire, manager, and administrator. Being involved in the sport in so many ways has shaped my understanding of the hockey community and deepened my appreciation for the people who make it what it is. That history is a big part of why I’m so passionate about contributing to its future in New South Wales.”