PMSA boss revealed: Sports boss to lead elite schools body

A man who has led cycling groups has been appointed CEO of the Presbyterian and Methodist Schools’ Association, promising to “immerse” himself in the embattled church body.

The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association, which runs four elite Queensland schools, has appointed a new CEO – and he’s from a sporting background.

Shane Coppin, formerly acting joint CEO of AusCycling, will take on the role from July 5.

Shane Coppin will join the Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association.

Informing the principals of Brisbane Boys’ College, Somerville House, Clayfield College and Sunshine Coast Grammar School and other stakeholders, the PMSA said Mr Coppin’s “listen first, collaborative but firm leadership style” equipped him well to lead the Christian body.

Board chair Peter Barker, who began in his role in mid-June following the resignation of Morgan Parker, said Mr Coppin would be a great fit.

“Shane is an experienced, approachable leader, with a record of achievement, leading diverse multi-stakeholder organisations,” Mr Barker said.

Students of Brisbane Boys’ College, one of four schools run by the PMSA.

Mr Coppin, a previous CEO of BMX Australia and Mountain Bike Australia, has also run a commercial shade structure business and held senior roles with Basketball ACT and Volleyball ACT.

An honorary adjunct assistant professor in Bond University’s business school, he will relocate from the Gold Coast for the PMSA job.

“I believe the PMSA boasts some of the most respected educators in the nation, and I look forward to meeting them all soon,” he said.

“I will begin by immersing myself in the PMSA and school communities, spending considerable time listening and exploring our four schools.

“I look forward to hearing from our people and communities to gain an understanding of our group, the challenges and ambitions shared throughout.”

He replaces Sharon Callister, who resigned in May.