Highly experienced sports administrator Malcolm Speed AO has been appointed as deputy chairman of its board.

Chairman John Hopkins said Mr Speed had been an excellent member of the board since his appointment in 2011 and the new post recognises his valued contribution.

Mr Speed has a hugely successful background in both the legal profession and in sports administration.

He was the International Cricket Council chief executive from 2001-08 after serving the Australian Cricket Board in the same capacity from 1997-2001 and is the current chair for Cycling Australia.

Before joining cricket, Mr Speed served Australian basketball from 1980 until 1997 including long periods as executive chairman of the NBL and Basketball Australia. Mr Speed practised as a solicitor from 1971-82 and as a barrister from 1983-94.

He has served a variety of other sporting organisations including the Australian Sports Commission, Australia and New Zealand Sports Law Association, the Coalition of Major Professional and Participation Sports and the World Economic Forum Global Sports Council.

Mr Hopkins said Mr Speed’s knowledge of the sporting landscape was an invaluable asset.

“We have been privileged to have Malcolm’s input for the past five years and Australian golf is better for his contribution,” Mr Hopkins said.

“We are thrilled he has taken on the role as deputy chairman and look forward to his ongoing insights.”