- Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority appoints new CEO.
- Simon Crooks brings over 40 years local and international experience in contemporary major project delivery.
- Appointment comes as Queensland marks seven years to the 2032 Games.
The Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) has announced the appointment of a new CEO – Simon Crooks – who will be instrumental in leading delivery of the Games infrastructure outlined in the Crisafulli Government's 2032 Delivery Plan.
Mr Crooks brings over 40 years local and international experience in contemporary major project delivery having most recently led the delivery of the Queen's Wharf infrastructure precinct, which has elevated Queensland as a tourism, leisure and entertainment destination ahead of the 2032 Games.
He brings the necessary combination of delivery expertise, team leadership experience and stakeholder engagement skills to deliver the Olympic and Paralympic infrastructure to the highest standard, ensuring a lasting legacy for Queenslanders.
Mr Crooks, whose appointment as CEO is effective from 1 August 2025, is widely respected across both industry and Government and is known for his transparent and collaborative approach.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie said Mr Crooks would be instrumental in the delivery of world-class infrastructure for 2032 and beyond.
"The Crisafulli Government is committed to delivering the best Games possible in 2032 and I know that Simon will lead the delivery of this legacy infrastructure on the world-stage," Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
"Today marks seven years until the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and after more than 1,200 days of Games chaos under the former Labor Government I know that Simon's transparent and collaborative approach is exactly what Queenslanders need and deserve.
"Simon has over 40 years' experience working and leading major infrastructure projects in the UK and Queensland with runs on the board and experience of delivering infrastructure in our market conditions."
GIICA's Chair, Stephen Conry said the appointment was a key milestone for the Authority.
"Following a rigorous global executive search process, we are delighted to announce Simon Crooks as the CEO of GIICA," Mr Conroy said.
"The appointment of a new CEO has been a critical responsibility of the GIICA Board which unanimously supported the appointment. It marks another critical milestone in GIICA's responsibilities as we progress delivery of vital infrastructure for Queensland.
"Simon will provide strong leadership and bring enormous project delivery experience and skills to this vital role.
"Simon is well regarded by industry and Government. He understands the stakeholder engagement responsibilities inherent in the role. He is well qualified to maintain the critical momentum of delivery to ensure we meet our commitments to Queenslanders."
Incoming CEO Simon Crooks said this was a once in a lifetime opportunity and is honoured to lead the delivery authority as it brings the Olympic and Paralympic Infrastructure to life.
"I am truly honoured to be given the opportunity to lead GIICA at such an exciting time for Queensland. I am looking forward to building on the work done to date, as we shift gears to delivery mode," Mr Crooks said.
"I'm excited to get underway and to work closely with the Board, government, industry, stakeholders, and communities across Queensland as we move into the delivery phase of this once-in-a-generation infrastructure program.
"With a career spanning more than four decades across the breadth of Queensland and the UK, from civil construction, building, advisory, development, and executive leadership this moment feels like a natural culmination and an opportunity to give back to the State that has given me so much. I'm looking forward to putting that experience to work in charting the course for infrastructure that will shape Queensland's future.
"There's no bigger event on the planet than the Olympic and Paralympic Games and my focus is building a world-class legacy that all Queenslanders will be proud of for generations to come."
This appointment is a key requirement of the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games Arrangements Act 2021, and Mr Crooks will commence work on the 1 August 2025 date and oversee the Games Independent Infrastructure Coordination Authority to deliver 17 new and upgraded venues in line with the 2032 Delivery Plan.
