The London Youth Games Foundation today announces that Chief Executive Andy Dalby-Welsh will be stepping down from his role, having led the organisation since 2019.

Andy joined the London Youth Games at a crucial time and has guided the organisation through one of the most turbulent periods in recent memory, including the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Under his leadership, the Games successfully transitioned to digital delivery, ensuring that thousands of young Londoners continued to experience the power of sport even during lockdown.

Andy has been responsible for introducing the LYG33 programme, which is putting young Londoners’ voices at the heart of the Games and sport in London. He has built our partnership with the GLA, enhancing our disability inclusion work, and established the Finals Festival Organising Committee, supporting us to deliver and celebrate the finale of the season on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

Andy said “It has been a huge privilege to lead the London Youth Games, and I would like to thank the LYG Board for giving me this opportunity. I would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to our Team, our Members, the Borough Team Organisers, School Games Organisers and our volunteers – without whom we could not provide the opportunities for young Londoners that we do. My thanks also go to those who invest in the Games, both now and in the future, with special mention to the 33 Boroughs of London, Sport England and the Greater London Authority.”

Andy’s departure comes as the organisation begins a new phase of strategic repositioning—focused on broadening the impact of sport and physical activity to support the health and wellbeing of every young Londoner.

During this transition, Katie Berry, currently the organisation’s Chief Operating Officer, will step into the role of Interim CEO. The Board will commence a formal recruitment process to appoint a new permanent Chief Executive to lead the Games through to its 50th Anniversary in 2027.

“We are incredibly grateful for Andy’s personal and professional commitment to the mission of the London Youth Games,” said Prof. Geoff Thompson MBE, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “He has played a critical role in laying the foundation for our next chapter, and we wish him every success in his future endeavours.”