Richard Johnson of Great Britain has been appointed to the new position of FEI Director of Communications following an extensive and open international search.

Johnson, who is currently Head of Media of The Children’s Society, will join the FEI on September 1. The Children’s Society is a leading charity dedicated to the care of young people and is a benchmark for media relations in that sector.

With 14 years’ experience, working in the charitable/not-for-profit sector for organizations with international issues and reach, Johnson has established communications functions and strategies and led new, contemporary campaigns in traditional organizations.

“Richard has an excellent track record in establishing and developing good internal and external communications in both executive and volunteer bodies,” FEI Secretary General Alex McLin said. “His understanding of the role of the executive within a committee structure, his creative flair and his experience of communicating with youth and commercial partners will, I am sure, be of great benefit to us all.”

“Joining the FEI at this exciting time is a great challenge, and I am thrilled to be joining the team,” Johnson commented. “The longterm challenge ahead is to develop new communication tools to unlock awareness opportunities whist maintaining the integrity of the sport. Alongside the National Federations and the talented team in Lausanne, I look forward to ensuring the compelling vision and authority of the FEI is shared with all stakeholders while introducing the sport to new audiences.”

This is a key appointment in the development of the FEI because, as set out in the President’s Manifesto, communicating effectively, both internally and externally, will allow the Federation to move forward at an increased rate.

The current FEI Communications Team—Malina Gueorguiev, Communications Manager, and Olivia Robinson, Communications Coordinator—will be closely involved in the expansion of the department’s activities.