Ken Owens Joins FAW's New Strategic Advisory Committee
Former Wales and British and Irish Lions rugby union player Ken Owens has been appointed to the Football Association of Wales' (FAW) new strategic advisory committee.
At 39, Owens boasts an impressive playing career, having captained the national team, earned 91 caps, and secured four Six Nations titles.
Since retiring in 2024, the five-Test Lion has contributed as a non-executive director on the board of Netball Super League team Cardiff Dragons.
The FAW states that this new committee aims to "strengthen the association's long-term strategic planning, decision-making, and delivery across all areas of the game."
The committee also includes:
Rhian Thomas, described by the FAW as "an experienced non-executive director with significant board-level expertise across highly regulated sectors."
James Gow, who dedicated 13 years to Liverpool before taking on the role of sporting director at Danish club Aalborg.
Shavanah Taj, general secretary of TUC Cymru (Wales Trades Union Congress).
Steve Dalton, a chartered director and former chair of the FAW Board.
The committee will be chaired by FAW president Mike Jones, alongside deputy president Will Lloyd Williams and vice-presidents Gail Powell, Mark Adams, and Graham Evans.
Additionally, it will include three former presidents: Peter Rees, David Griffiths, and Kieran O'Connor, as well as life councillors Ron Bridges, Ken Hughes, David Alun Jones, Philip Jones, Ken Tucker, Bob Waygood, and Chris Whitley.
In a statement, the FAW remarked: "Operating in an advisory capacity, the strategic advisory committee collaborates with FAW leadership to provide informed insights, constructive challenges, and strategic support, ensuring the organization remains focused on sustainable growth, high performance, and long-term impact.
"A core aspect of its role is to offer constructive challenges that will help test, strengthen, and refine strategic plans. Members will work collaboratively with FAW staff, fellow committee members, and key stakeholders to support the effective delivery of FAW strategies.
"The committee will also assist in monitoring and evaluating strategic objectives, ensuring that progress aligns with the FAW's ambitions and delivers meaningful impact for football in Wales."
FAW chief executive Noel Mooney stated: "The committee brings together an exceptional group of individuals with extensive expertise in football, governance, business, and public life. Their independent insights and constructive challenges will be invaluable as we continue to implement our long-term strategy and ensure the FAW is well-positioned to support the game at every level across Wales."