Australian Olympic Committee: Ian Chesterman replaces Kitty Chiller as Chef de Mission for Tokyo 2020

IAN Chesterman, who has replaced Kitty Chiller as Australia’s chef de mission for Tokyo 2020, acknowledges he’s stepping into a challenging role.

New Australian chef de mission Ian Chesterman (left) with John Coates. Picture: Getty Images

• AOC review confirms allegations of a dysfunctional culture
• Australian Olympic leadership showdown fuelled by squabbles

IAN Chesterman wants the Australian Olympic Committee to “reset” itself after getting the nod to be Chef de Mission for the Tokyo 2020 Games.

Chesterman, vice-president of the AOC and a member of the executive board since 2001, replaces Kitty Chiller, who opted not to continue in the position.

The appointment comes on the back of an independent review into the workplace culture at the AOC, described as “dysfunctional” and “toxic”.

Chef de Mission Ian Chesterman comforts injured aerial skier Jacqui Cooper at the 2002 Games.

Chesterman, who received unanimous support at an AOC executive meeting, says his priority will be on creating the best possible environment for athletes as they look to improve on Rio last year when Australia won 29 medals — their lowest tally since 1992.

“We can’t underestimate just how tough a Games it was,” Chesterman said. “I’ve been involved in a lot of organising committees and they all have their difficulties, but Rio was exceptional.” Starting afresh and going to a place like Japan, which will be organised, it will be very helpful.

“You’re playing sport, you want success. Every team wants success,” Chesterman said.

Kitty Chiller, who didn’t seek reappointment for 2020, and media director Mike Tancred. Picture: AAP

“My style is very much to work with the national federations, to give them an environment where they can do their best. They’re running the sports.

“Our job as an Olympic committee is to try and make sure everything is in order when athletes get there, allow them to operate at their best.”

Chesterman brings a wealth of experience to his new role after leading five Australian Winter Olympic Games teams.

“I don’t think we can underestimate just how difficult Games are, so going into an environment where you understand the Games, understand the way Olympic Games work, understand the pressures — you need to have that background into how organising committees work,” he said.

“I have been able to experience that in five Winter Games and I’ll take that forward.”

Originally published as Australian Olympic Committee: Ian Chesterman replaces Kitty Chiller as Chef de Mission for Tokyo 2020