By FAS

Singapore, July 19, 2011 — The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) today announced that it will establish a new management structure to lead the S.League Strategic Business Unit.

In addition to the previous announcement of increased funding for S.League clubs over the next five years, FAS is pleased to announce that as part of the continuous improvement plans, it intends to strengthen and boost the management of S.League by recruiting senior-level personnel who will be part of the S.League management team led by a new Chief Executive Officer.

“Over the years, the work pertaining to football development and running our professional league (S.League) has grown significantly. With the FAS Strategic Plan now up and running, it requires the full attention and focus of the management of FAS.

“Similarly, I am always looking at ways to improve the S.League. In view of the extensive workload, coupled with the fact that we have more resources, we have decided to strengthen the management of S.League.

“We will build a management team for S.League and this team will be headed by the CEO of S.League. The CEO will report to a separate Executive Committee that would include persons of commercial experience in sports marketing and branding,” said FAS President Zainudin Nordin.

“Mr Winston Lee, besides being the General Secretary of FAS, has been serving as the S.League CEO since 2006. He will concentrate on his role as General Secretary of FAS and oversee the implementation of FAS Strategic Plan. He will also serve as a resource person for the S.League where he can continue to share his experience and expertise. In addition to these responsibilities, Winston will also continue to explore opportunities to promote Singapore football in Asia, including the Asean Super League committee which is chaired by him,” he added.

The FAS will embark on the search for a suitable candidate immediately.

“We could also engage executive search firms for this appointment and hope to shortlist a broad pool of qualified applicants before we identify the suitable candidate for the Chief Executive position,” Mr Zainudin said.

A selection panel consisting of Prof Ho Peng Kee, Ms Jessie Phua, Mr Lim Teck Yin and Mr Zainudin Nordin will make the final recommendation to FAS.

“We are in a dynamic and exciting phase of football development in Singapore. The pipeline of young talents through our youth development is beginning to bear fruits. With the recent announcement of key partnerships with JFA and FAM, I believe it’s timely for us to leverage and further develop the S.League in tandem,” Mr Zainudin said.