Former Football Australia exec James Johnson appointed Group CEO of Canadian Soccer Business

Canadian Soccer Business announced Thursday that James Johnson has been appointed to the newly-created role of Group Chief Executive Officer, bringing his wealth of experience from around the soccer world to begin a new chapter for the sport in Canada.

Johnson, widely recognized as one of the world’s leading soccer executives, joins CSB after working in leadership roles at FIFA, the Asian Football Confederation, City Football Group and, most recently Football Australia, where he served as CEO from 2020 until earlier this month.

“James brings a rare combination of global insight, strategic leadership, and a deep passion for developing the sport at every level,” said Scott Mitchell, chair of the CSB Board of Directors, in a statement. “His vision aligns perfectly with CSB’s goal to build a sustainable, progressive, and globally recognized soccer environment for Canada.”

Johnson’s five-year tenure as CEO of Football Australia tenure marked one of the most successful and transformational periods in Australian soccer history, which saw unprecedented revenue growth and participation numbers as well as the staging of a record-breaking FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023 and securing the right to host the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in 2026.

His extensive global perspective, experience in broadcast negotiations and overall track record uniquely position Johnson to steer CSB’s strategic growth in the years ahead. 

His appointment comes at a pivotal time for Canadian soccer, as the country prepares to co-host FIFA World Cup 2026 next year. It exemplifies CSB’s aim to create a globally-recognized soccer environment for Canada and to drive growth that benefits the game, through its comprehensive commercial and organizational portfolio, which includes a long-term rights agreement with Canada Soccer as well as the ownership and management of the Canadian Premier League and League1 Canada.

Johnson will also sit on the board of OneSoccer, where he will drive forward a comprehensive media strategy for the distribution of all CSB’s rights. 

“His appointment is a testament both to his track record shaping and delivering large-scale, sustainable initiatives across multiple jurisdictions, and his recognition of the tremendous potential CSB has in the years ahead,” said Mitchell.

“I am honored to join CSB and feel a real sense of excitement from the momentum building behind Canadian soccer,” said Johnson. “I look forward to working with all stakeholders to support growth for all. We will build on CSB’s unique assets to foster a thriving and inclusive soccer community, putting innovation, collaboration and strategic partnerships at the heart of all we do.”

The news of Johnson's appointment comes in the wake of Wednesday's announcement that CSB CEO and CPL Commissioner Mark Noonan will be stepping down at the end of June.

Johnson will begin in his new role starting later this summer.