The Bowls Development Alliance (BDA) is delighted to announce the appointment of Amanda Solloway as its new INED Vice Chair, effective from next week, following formal approval at the BDA Board meeting on 15 July 2025.
Amanda brings a wealth of experience across leadership, governance, and public service. Her distinguished career has spanned both the public and private sectors, including her tenure as Member of Parliament for Derby North and as a UK Government Minister. During this time, Amanda held significant ministerial positions including Science Minister, Lord Commissioner for the Treasury, and most recently, Minister for Affordability and Skills, where she championed fairness, diversity, and inclusion.
Alongside her political career, Amanda is an accomplished management development consultant, executive coach, and trusted advisor. As a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), she has worked extensively on behavioural development and cultural change at senior levels across a variety of different sectors.
Amanda’s community focus is reflected in her founding of HeadHigh CIC, a pioneering mental health organisation, and her longstanding voluntary roles including school governor, trustee, and mentor.
Amanda commented:
“I’m delighted to be joining the Bowls Development Alliance at a time of opportunity and growth. Bowls is a sport that brings communities together and provides a truly inclusive environment for people of all ages and backgrounds. I look forward to working alongside the Board, the BDA team, and our partners to champion inclusion, diversity, and wellbeing across the sport, and to ensure that bowls continues to thrive for future generations.”
Lisa Graham, Managing Director of the BDA, said:
“We are incredibly pleased to welcome Amanda as our new Independent Non-Executive Vice Chair. Her experience in leadership, governance, and championing community causes will be invaluable as we continue to develop bowls as a sport that is welcoming, accessible, and sustainable for all.”
About the Bowls Development Alliance
The Bowls Development Alliance works in partnership with the national governing bodies of bowls in England to develop and grow the sport, ensuring it is accessible, inclusive, and sustainable for generations to come.