Unforeseen personal matter ​prompts renewed search for General Secretary

Canada Soccer announced today the formation of a new Transition Leadership Team, effective immediately.

On Saturday 20 January, Alyson Walker informed Canada Soccer that she will not be able to fulfill the duties of the General Secretary, a role that she was supposed to officially begin today.

“Our thoughts are with Alyson as she deals with an unforeseen personal matter that sadly precludes her from taking on the role of General Secretary. While we were all looking forward to having her lead Canada Soccer, we fully understand, and deeply respect her request for privacy. We wish her all the very best.” ​​​said Charmaine Crooks, Canada Soccer President.

“After careful consideration and conversation with my family, I have decided for personal reasons, to take some time away and will not step into the role of General Secretary at Canada Soccer. I wish Canada Soccer the very best and will be cheering on from afar.” said Alyson Walker.

Korn Ferry, the global organizational consulting firm, is actively engaged and has resumed the extensive global search for General Secretary, which will include the highly qualified pool of candidates that have already been interviewed and vetted.

The Canada Soccer Board, along with the President and Vice President, has immediately enacted a Transition Leadership Team, led by current Independent Director and Chair of the HR Committee, Kelly Brown, until a permanent General Secretary is confirmed and announced.

Other members of the Transition Leadership Team include:

• Mathieu Chamberland — Chief Operating Officer
• Sean Heffernan – Chief Financial Officer
• Paulo Senra — Chief Communications & Content Officer

The Federation’s day-to-day operational matters will be divided among Mathieu Chamberland, who will oversee membership relations, soccer and administrative operations; Sean Heffernan, will manage revenue and finances; and Paulo Senra will lead the federation’s external relations and be the primary spokesperson. ​

“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank the transition team for taking on this added responsibility and to our entire staff for their continued hard work moving our organization forward.” added Crooks.