The Invictus Games Foundation has announced a significant leadership transition with the appointment of Rob Owen OBE as its new Chief Executive Officer. This change comes after Dominic Reid OBE, who has served for a decade, steps down in February 2025. The organization, founded by Prince Harry, aims to support wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans through adaptive sports competitions. Owen's extensive experience in building partnerships and fostering inclusive cultures positions him well to continue the foundation's mission.
In the heart of winter, amidst preparations for the upcoming Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, the Invictus Games Foundation is set to welcome its new leader. Rob Owen OBE will officially assume his role as CEO in late February 2025, succeeding Dominic Reid OBE. Reid played a pivotal role in establishing the Invictus Games, which began in London in 2014. Over the past decade, he has been instrumental in expanding the event's global impact, culminating in the successful tournaments held in various cities worldwide.
Owen brings with him a wealth of experience from his 16-year tenure as CEO of St Giles Trust, where he significantly expanded the organization's programs and achieved remarkable savings for the U.K. taxpayer. His personal achievements, including climbing Mount Everest and completing extreme endurance events, align perfectly with the Invictus spirit of resilience and determination. The incoming CEO expressed his enthusiasm for joining an organization that has not only changed lives but also inspired the world.
The upcoming Invictus Games in Vancouver and Whistler, scheduled from February 8 to 16, 2025, will introduce winter sports for the first time, marking a historic milestone for the tournament. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have already kicked off the countdown celebrations, engaging with athletes and communities in Canada. Reid praised Prince Harry's unwavering commitment to supporting veterans and highlighted the Duke of Sussex's crucial role in driving the foundation's success.
As the Invictus Games Foundation looks forward to its next chapter under Owen's leadership, it remains dedicated to empowering service personnel and veterans through sport. The addition of winter sports in Vancouver and Whistler promises to bring new energy and excitement to the competition, further enhancing its global reach and impact.
From a journalist's perspective, this leadership transition underscores the ongoing commitment to the Invictus Games' mission. It reflects a seamless handover from one visionary leader to another, ensuring the foundation's continued growth and influence. Owen's background and personal achievements suggest that he is well-equipped to lead the organization into a future filled with even greater opportunities for healing and empowerment through sport.