Mark Bullingham has served as Chief Executive Officer of The Football Association (The FA) since 1 August 2019, placing him at the helm of the organisation that oversees every level of football in England — from elite national teams to grassroots clubs. Long before taking the top job, he joined The FA in August 2016 as Commercial and Football Development Officer. In that role he transformed the commercial, marketing, digital and participation functions of The FA, substantially increasing revenue and strengthening the game’s infrastructure nationwide.
Under his leadership, The FA has flourished. Mark spearheaded landmark broadcast, sponsorship, licensing and hospitality deals for Wembley, The FA Cup, England teams and more — investments that enabled the organisation to grow, fund grassroots football, and support inclusion and growth across women’s, youth and community football. His strategic vision helped boost annual revenue by more than £100 million, reflecting his ability not only to lead, but to deliver tangible, positive change for the sport at every level.
What defines Mark is not only his commercial acumen but also his deep belief in football’s power to unite, inspire and transform communities. He has repeatedly spoken about nurturing participation, improving grassroots facilities, widening access to the game for girls and women, and giving back through football’s social and community roots. His commitment extends beyond boardrooms — he is a qualified Level‑1 coach and has spent time on the sidelines coaching youth teams, embodying both leadership and participation.
Before The FA, Mark had built a strong track record in sport and entertainment management. As CEO EMEA of a major sports & entertainment agency, he led dramatic growth — expanding the team, overseeing dozens of global brand partnerships, and negotiating major deals across sport, arts and media. Earlier still, he helped shape global sailing’s marquee event — the America’s Cup — as Marketing Director, playing a key role in transforming its global reach and commercial success.
Outside the stadiums and boardrooms, Mark’s own journey reminds us of the value of discipline, education and global perspective. He holds an MBA with highest honours from ESLSCA in Paris — the first ever to graduate summa cum laude under that programme — and has been recognised among the world’s most influential marketing leaders.
In short: Mark Bullingham stands as a bridge between tradition and tomorrow — a figure dedicated to preserving football’s heritage while pushing its boundaries. Through strategy, compassion, and unyielding hope for growth at every level, he continues to guide English football toward a future rooted in opportunity, unity and the joy of the beautiful game.
The Football Association (FA) is the governing body of football in England and is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the amateur and professional game in the country. Founded in 1863, it is the oldest football association in the world. The FA is headquartered at Wembley Stadium in London and is a member of both UEFA and FIFA, playing a significant role in the international football community.
The FA’s responsibilities include the organization and regulation of England’s national football team, the administration of major competitions such as the FA Cup and the FA Community Shield, and the development of football at all levels from grassroots to the elite. It sets the rules for the game in England, manages refereeing standards, and works on initiatives to improve coaching, youth development, and the overall health of the sport. The FA is also committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within football, aiming to ensure the sport is accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
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