SYDNEY, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The head of football's governing body in Australia has resigned.
Football Australia (FA) on Thursday announced that James Johnson has resigned as chief executive officer after more than five years in the role.
In a statement, Johnson said that it has been a "privilege" to lead the governing body.
"As someone who is immensely passionate about Australian football, this decision has not come easy, but I believe the time is right to step down," he said.
Johnson joined the FA as chief executive in 2020 after previously working for the Asian Football Confederation, FIFA and the City Football Group.
During his tenure with the FA, Johnson led Australia's successful bid to co-host the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup with New Zealand, and host the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup.
His resignation comes as the FA prepares to appoint a new permanent head coach of the women's national team. Tom Sermanni has served as the interim coach of the Matildas since September 2024 following Tony Gustavsson's resignation.
Australian media reported that Australia's Joe Montemurro, currently in charge of French women's club Olympique Lyonnais, is set to be appointed as the Matildas' manager.
Heather Garriock, who played 130 times for the Matildas between 1999 and 2011, has been named as the FA's interim chief executive. ■