FIFA has made a landmark announcement with the appointment of Jill Ellis as its new Chief Football Officer. The two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup-winning coach will join the governing body’s executive management team, playing a pivotal role in shaping and delivering FIFA’s global football strategy.
Ellis, widely regarded as one of the most accomplished figures in women’s football, made history by leading the United States Women’s National Team to consecutive World Cup victories in 2015 and 2019 an achievement unmatched by any other coach. Most recently, she served as President of San Diego Wave FC, where she guided the club to the NWSL Shield in only its second year, solidifying her reputation as a transformative leader in the sport.
In her new role, Ellis will work alongside Arsène Wenger, FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, focusing on key technical areas of the game while advancing football’s growth across all levels. Her responsibilities will span grassroots initiatives, elite coaching strategies, and youth development, as FIFA seeks to unite and empower communities worldwide through the power of football.
“I am honoured to join FIFA in this pioneering role and to contribute to the growth of football from a global perspective,” Ellis said. “FIFA has a unique ability, through football, to unite communities and to drive the game’s development worldwide. Having experienced football, from grassroots programmes up to senior national-team level, I’ve seen first-hand its transformative power.”
Ellis’ legacy is unmatched. Her success on the touchline, coupled with her ability to build winning cultures off it, makes her one of the sport’s most influential figures. Her appointment signals FIFA’s intent to bolster its leadership team with proven expertise as it continues to push the boundaries of global football development.
With Ellis at the forefront of this mission, FIFA’s efforts to elevate the game and unite the world through football look set to reach unprecedented heights.
