YASIR MIRZA, head of Diversity & Inclusion at the Financial Times (FT), has been named the Football Association (FA)’s new director of equality, diversity, and inclusion.
As their lead diversity and equality advisor, Mirza will collaborate closely with the senior teams of both the men’s and women’s England as well as the junior age groups.
Due to English football’s continued commitment to increasing diversity, the executive role has grown significantly in importance within the governing body in recent years.
Mirza was chosen by the FA after an eight-month search for their next director of equality, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I), which was assisted by recruiting specialist Perrett Laver.
As a recognised expert in his profession, Mirza departed his position as global head of inclusion and diversity at the FT.
He previously held positions in a similar capacity at BBC Studios, Channel 4, and The Guardian.
One of Mirza’s early priorities will be to communicate with important English football stakeholders to hasten the passage of the long-awaited Online Harms Bill, which will contain strict measures to prohibit social media abuse.
Black and other minority footballers have faced increased abuse and vitriol aimed at them. This was most apparent during Euro 2020, when England lost to penalties in the final to Italy at Wembley in 2021.
Mirza replaces Edleen John, who left the FA last summer after an internal probe over claims about her conduct towards co-workers.
John served as EDI’s co-partner, director of corporate affairs, and director of international relations.
Mirza’s new job, however, is only focused on EDI and has no oversight of corporate or foreign issues.
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