Sullivan will take over The Premier League, The FA and Government’s charity which champions and supports fair access to quality football facilities for everyone, regardless of postcode, gender, race, disability or place, after an extensive open recruitment process which brought forward a range of high quality, diverse candidates.

Foundation Chairman Martin Glenn, said of the appointment: “I’m delighted that Robert will be taking on the executive leadership of the Football Foundation on a permanent basis.

“In a really competitive field of excellent candidates, both his experience within facility investment and potential to grow as a leader, really stood out. He’s shown in taking the Interim position over the last seven months his ability to lead and manage through difficult times.

“The Board and I look forward to this partnership developing in the years to come.”

Sullivan, who has been Interim CEO at the Foundation since 1 April 2020, is a former Strategy and Communications Director at The FA where he developed and led the Parklife Hubs programme, and led their Facility Investment work for three years.

He also established, and was the first Chair, of the Foundation’s National Football Facilities Strategy Advisory Group.

Speaking on his appointment, he said: “It’s a real privilege to be given the responsibility to lead the Football Foundation.

“Transforming the state of grassroots football facilities in England is the most important challenge our game faces – and it’s a challenge I care passionately about.

“I’ve really enjoyed this interim period, and greatly value the support I’ve received from the Foundation team, funding partners, Martin and the Trustees. I can’t wait to get started.”