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Pierre Comis, Chief Executive of Special Olympics Australia (SOA), has announced he will step down from his role in March next year.

Comis joined SOA in February 2020 as Head of Schools and Participation and was appointed to the Chief Executive role in August 2021.

During his tenure, he successfully guided the organisation through the challenges of the pandemic, ensuring the safe return of athletes to training and competition, including hosting the delayed National Games in 2022.

He also led strategic reform and implemented organisational transformation following a collaborative consultation process with Deloitte to develop the new Strategic Plan and he brokered the partnership with a nationally aligned Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR), the largest grassroots awareness and fundraising initiative for Special Olympics, globally.

Acknowledging Comis’ impactful leadership, SOA Chairman, Andrew Richardson stated “Pierre has been a passionate advocate for the movement in Australia, playing a pivotal role in ensuring the organisation has a clear vision and roadmap for the future, as evidenced by the recent announcement of our five-year Strategic Plan.

“Pierre will remain at the helm until March next year, working closely with the Board and Leadership Team to ensure a seamless transition as we commence the search for his successor.

“On behalf of the Board and staff, we thank Pierre for his significant contributions to the Special Olympics movement in Australia and wish him every success in his future endeavours.”

Comis has determined the time is right to step aside as the organisation embarks on the first full year of its new Strategic Plan, advising “it has been a great privilege to lead Special Olympics Australia and champion inclusive sport. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished and am confident in the strong and capable team we have in place to ensure the continued growth and evolution of the movement in Australia.

“During my time, I’ve had the honour of supporting Team Australia at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, worked closely with an amazing cohort of volunteers, experienced unwavering support from our loyal partners, and gained great joy and inspiration from engaging with the athletes, particularly our Athlete Leaders.

“Recent highlights such as the record donation from LETR Victoria and the announcement that Melbourne will host the 2026 National Games showcase the incredible support and spirit of our community, and I’m proud to have had a front row seat leading the way through it all.

“With a clear vision for the future in place, I believe the time is right to pass the torch. I have played my part, and I look forward to working with our Leadership Team and Board to ensure a smooth transition.”

SOA has initiated the process to search for its next Chief Executive.

Image:  Pierre Comis. Credit: SOA.

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