The man who delivered Brisbane’s Queen’s Wharf will be in charge of the infrastructure build for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Simon Crooks has been appointed the new CEO of the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA).
Deputy Premier and State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Minister Jarrod Bleijie said Mr Crooks would be instrumental in the delivery of world-class infrastructure for 2032 and beyond.
Deputy Premier Bleijie said Mr Crooks brought over 40 years local and international experience in contemporary major project delivery.
“(He) most recently led the delivery of the Queen’s Wharf infrastructure precinct, which has elevated Queensland as a tourism, leisure and entertainment destination ahead of the 2032 Games,” he said.
“He brings the necessary combination of delivery expertise, team leadership experience and stakeholder engagement skills to deliver the Olympic and Paralympic infrastructure to the highest standard, ensuring a lasting legacy for Queenslanders.”
Deputy Premier Bleijie said Mr Crooks, whose steps into the role on August 1, was widely respected across both industry and Government.
“Today marks seven years until the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and I know that Simon’s transparent and collaborative approach is exactly what Queenslanders need and deserve.
“Simon has over 40 years’ experience working and leading major infrastructure projects in the UK and Queensland with runs on the board and experience of delivering infrastructure in our market conditions.”
GIICA Chair Stephen Conroy said the appointment was a key milestone for the Authority.
“The appointment of a new CEO has been a critical responsibility of the GIICA Board which unanimously supported the appointment,” Mr Conroy said.
“Simon will provide strong leadership and bring enormous project delivery experience and skills to this vital role.
“Simon is well regarded by industry and Government. He understands the stakeholder engagement responsibilities inherent in the role. He is well qualified to maintain the critical momentum of delivery to ensure we meet our commitments to Queenslanders.”
Mr Crooks said this was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
“There’s no bigger event on the planet than the Olympic and Paralympic Games and my focus is building a world-class legacy that all Queenslanders will be proud of for generations to come.”
