The International Working Group (IWG) on Women and Sport is pleased to welcome Esther Britten MBE to the UK Steering Committee, which serves to support the implementation of the IWG Strategic Plan 2022-2026 while the Secretariat operates from the UK.
In her position as the Head of Major Events at UK Sport, Esther has played a key role in the bidding and staging of major international sporting events hosted in the UK over the past decade and, combined with her experience as a former hockey player and umpire, she has also been involved with a huge range of sports events across the globe.
Esther said: “I’m excited to join IWG’s UK Steering Committee and being able to work with the team as they deliver against the final two years of their ambitious four-year strategy. Advancing gender equality in sport is something I personally feel very strongly about, so I’m looking forward to supporting with the hosting of future events, as well as contributing towards their strategic priorities.”
Annamarie Phelps CBE OLY, Chair of the IWG’s UK Secretariat, said: “We are delighted to have Esther join our UK Steering Committee. As we begin to ramp up our planning for the IWG Global Summit, taking place at the ICC in Birmingham in 2026, we will undoubtedly benefit from Esther’s experience and expertise in delivering major international events. I am looking forward to having her insights and support during the build-up to our Global Summit which will be the largest gathering of its kind, bringing together major players in sport from across the world to share, inspire and expedite growth, visibility and investment in women’s sport.
“I would also like to thank Naomi Angell-Hicks who is stepping down from the group for the fantastic support she offered during her time on the committee, particularly in the strategic communications and policy areas of work.”