Kick It Out Appoints Tony Burnett As New CEO

Kick It Out has announced the appointment of Tony Burnett as its new Chief Executive Officer, taking up the role from 1st February 2021.

Tony joins Kick It Out from West Midlands Police, where he has been Assistant Director for Diversity and Inclusion since January 2018.

He brings a wealth of experience from previous senior Diversity and Inclusion positions, including Lloyds Banking Group where he was Head of Diversity and Inclusion, and Ford Motor Company where he was European Diversity Manager. He has eight years of experience as a Diversity and Inclusion consultant where he supported some major public and private sector organisations across the UK, Ireland and Africa.

Speaking of his appoint, Tony, said: “As an avid football fan, I have been aware of the work of Kick It Out for a long time now and have always been passionate about the cause they represent.

“Football should be a game where everyone feels they belong, and we must continue to work hard to make that a reality. I’m really looking forward to getting started and helping to lead this organisation forward over the coming years.”

Sanjay Bhandari, Kick It Out Chair, added: “We are absolutely delighted that Tony has agreed to become our new CEO. Tony brings a crucial blend of experience from the pitch and from the boardroom.

“Tony’s experience as a young player and as a coach will resonate with many of the people we represent. He has experienced what they are experiencing. His track record of driving change as a diversity and inclusion professional, demonstrates that he can translate that experience into meaningful change.

“I am looking forward to working with Tony, delivering our new strategy and being a galvanising force for inclusive change in football.”