Parks and Leisure Australia names Anand Pillay as its new Chief Executive

October 15, 2024

Anand Pillay, described as “a visionary leader in the leisure industry”, has been named as the new Chief Executive at Parks and Leisure Australia (PLA).

Announcing the appointment, a statement from PLA advised that Pillay is “a dedicated professional with 24 years of experience in the leisure industry (who) throughout his career … has made significant strides in enhancing the lives of those in his community.”

The statement added “his expertise in leadership, strategic planning, and resource management equips him to excel in driving the organisation towards its goals, and ensure PLA continues to support its member, the people behind the places.

“He is a strong advocate for collaboration and the cultivation of productive relationships. He actively pursues opportunities for policy development and research, demonstrating his commitment to self-improvement and quality outcomes for both himself and others.”

Noting that Pillay holds a Master's in Leisure Management and is also in the process of completing a PhD focused on the benefits of sport and recreation facilities, PLA noted “his comprehensive understanding of current trends and challenges facing the leisure industry makes him a strong candidate to lead PLA’s future growth and strategic vision.”

Pillay has had previous involvement with the PLA as a judge, member of the advisory committee, Queensland regional councillor, and national board member.

The PLA statement went on to say “Anand's commitment to enhancing community well-being through sport and recreation aligns perfectly with our mission. His proven ability to unite diverse teams and foster productive relationships will be invaluable as we work together to elevate the impact of Parks and Leisure Australia on communities across the nation.”

Welcoming Pillay’s appointment, PLA President, Kristen Davies advised “Anand Pillay’s diverse experience - ranging from working with outdoor practitioners and First Nations communities to advocating at various levels of government - makes him an invaluable asset for our organisation. His deep commitment to enhancing the sophistication and influence of Parks and Leisure Australia aligns seamlessly with our vision for the future. We are excited to see how his leadership will help propel us forward.”

PLA's 2024 National Conference is currently being held in Brisbane and runs until Wednesday 16th October.

Click here for more information in the Australasian Leisure Management industry Calendar.

Image: Anand Pillay. Credit: Parks and Leisure Australia.

4th October 2024 - PLA National President condemns ‘hostile actions’ and ‘misinformation’ over body’s planned constitutional change

27th July 2024 - Parks and Leisure Australia President moves to consulting role

17th July 2024 - Parks and Leisure Australia releases Preliminary Program for 2024 National Conference:

19th March 2024 - Parks and Leisure Australia unveils new look executive team

16th November 2023 - Parks and Leisure Australia to charge up to $60 for tour of the new Parramatta Aquatic Centre

31st October 2023 - Parks and Leisure Australia recognises Dr John Tower with top award

17th October 2023 - End of the road for Parks and Leisure Australia’s printed journal

16th October 2023 - Parks and Leisure Australia to stage Queensland/NSW aquatic play and water features forum

22nd April 2023 - Parks and Leisure Australia partners with World Urban Parks to present International Congress on Sustainable Places, Spaces, People and Habitats

20th January 2023 - LARCAN consultancy to manage operations for Parks and Leisure Australia’s NSW/ACT branch

29th December 2022 - Parks and Leisure Australia WA Branch to present recreation strategy workshop

20th October 2022 - Parks and Leisure Australia announces 2022 Awards of Excellence winners

19th October 2022 - 500 delegates attend 2022 Parks and Leisure Australia National Conference

30th May 2022 - Mark Band to step down as Chief Executive at Parks and Leisure Australia

22nd February 2022 - Parks and Leisure Australia launches professional certification program

26th November 2021 - Parks and Leisure Australia recognise Nick Cox for long term support

18th August 2021 - Parks and Leisure Australia calls for final nominations for Green Flag Award

24th May 2021 - Parks and Leisure Australia to stage ‘Deconstructed’ Conference series in Western Australia

13th May 2021 - Registrations open for PLA’s forum on establishing a National Women in Parks and Leisure Network

11th May 2021 - Confusion over invoices sent to Parks and Leisure Australia members

24th June 2020 - Parks and Leisure Australia salutes parks and their workers with green lighting initiative

12th November 2019 - Parks and Leisure Australia releases ‘Perth Statement’ on better planning and investment in community infrastructure

Support our industry news service
We hope that you value the news that we publish so while you're here can we ask for your support?

As an independent publisher, we need reader support for our industry news gathering so ask that - if you don't already do so - you back us by subscribing to the printed Australasian Leisure Management magazine and/or our online news.

Click here to view our subscription options.