Mike Perls MBE has been appointed as the new independent Chair of the Team GB Foundation, the charitable arm of the British Olympic Association (BOA).
Mike Perls MBE was appointed Chair of the Team GB Foundation following a competitive independent recruitment process.
An entrepreneur and experienced business leader, Perls founded and scaled MC2 into an international marketing and communications group. He was awarded an MBE in 2019 for services to the communities of Manchester, recognising his longstanding commitment to creating positive social impact.
He recently concluded eight years as Chair of GM Moving, Greater Manchester's active partnership, championing physical activity, wellbeing and the role of movement in improving people's lives. He also served for seven years on the Board of Governors at Manchester Metropolitan University.
Perls’ extensive experience in major sporting events includes serving as Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee for the Rugby League World Cup 2021 and the Tour de France Grand Départ 2027. He is also Chief Marketing Officer at Science in Sport, bringing together his experience across business, sport, community impact and governance.
Reflecting on his appointment, Perls said: “It's an enormous honour to be appointed Chair of the Team GB Foundation. I've always believed in the extraordinary power of sport to inspire people, bring communities together and create opportunities that can change lives.
“Team GB has a unique place in the hearts of the nation, and I'm excited to work with Baroness Katherine Grainger, Jen Rouse and the trustees to turn that inspiration into meaningful, lasting impact — helping more people believe in themselves, realise their potential and feel part of something bigger.”
Dame Katherine Grainger, Chair of the British Olympic Association, said: “Following an extensive recruitment campaign, we are delighted to welcome Mike as the new Foundation Chair.
“Mike brings a wealth of purpose driven experience at an exciting time for the Foundation. As the BOA embarks a new strategy in the coming months, the importance of social value will create some new opportunities for the Team GB family to engage with.
“I wish Mike every future success and am confident that his expertise and approach will prove invaluable to the Team GB Foundation”. Perls replaces outgoing Chair David Ross, following the conclusion of a four-year term in the role.
The Team GB Foundation uses the power of Olympic sport and the Olympic Values to equip and inspire young people to improve their physical, emotional and mental wellbeing, helping them lead healthier, happier and more active lives.
Through funding Team GB’s social impact activity - including school-based education programme Get Set, delivered jointly with ParalympicsGB - the Foundation brings athletes, schools and communities together to build confidence, develop resilience and encourage lasting healthy habits. Its work focuses on expanding access to opportunities, particularly for young people who face the greatest barriers to participation.