Oon Jin Teik has been appointed the chief executive officer of Singapore Sports Hub on Jan. 23, 2018.

He has been the Acting CEO since former CEO Manu Sawhney's departure in May 2017.

First locally-born CEO

Oon is the first locally-born CEO for the integrated sports, entertainment and lifestyle hub.

Previously, Frenchman Phillipe Collin-Delavaud served as CEO from Mar. 2011 to Dec. 2015, before Sawhney, an India-born Singaporean, took over the reins.

Vast background in sports

Oon was a national swimmer who represented Singapore in the 1984 Olympics. He has also held various appointments in both the private and public sectors in recent years.

Since June 2014, he has served as the secretary-general of the Singapore Swimming Association.

Prior to that, Oon was at environmental solutions company Hyflux from 2011 to 2014.

During his stint as CEO of Singapore Sports Council (now Sport Singapore) from 2004 to 2010, Oon was responsible for conceptualising the Singapore Sports Hub project.

In a media release, Oon said:

"Ensuring that the Singapore Sports Hub remains fit for its purpose in an ever-changing playing field is key in our forward journey. Together, we will spare no effort to stay ahead of our game and score many more wins for Singapore."

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Strong, decisive and capable leader

In a media conference, Singapore Sports Hub chairman Bryn Jones said that Oon's "intimate knowledge of the ecosystem of sport" in Singapore is one of the reasons why he is the best man for the role.

In a press release, Jones said:

"The Board is particularly impressed by Jin Teik's performance when he ws Acting CEO, where he proved to be a strong, decisive and capable leader. As a Board, we recognise Jin Teik's passion for the project of which he has been an integral part since its inception."

Plans for the future

In a presentation, Oon mentioned that the Sports Hub's target market for 2018 will be Singaporeans and tourists.

He also said that in 2018, the Sports Hub will be hosting more thematic festivals such as the Festival of Football and the Japan Festival, aside from the regular sports and entertainment events.

Plans are underway for an adventure park set to be ready in 2019, as well as a Sports Arts Heritage Trail.

Top image via Singapore Sports Hub