Jones, who has been at the helm of Paddle Australia since 2017, has ensured a smooth transition for the sport post-Paris by also announcing that current National Performance Director Kim Crane will replace him as CEO.

ASC Executive General Manager of AIS Performance Matti Clements congratulated Paddle Australia for their strong CEO succession plan, saying it is not only good for Paddle but for Australian sport in general.

“While it will be sad to say farewell to Phil after the Paris Games next year, Paddle will be incredibly safe hands with Kim,” Clements said.

“Kim has three-decades worth of experience in leadership and management roles, including a long association with the Australian Institute of Sport.

“Paddle’s high performance programs have experienced fantastic results since Kim took on the National Performance Director role in 2021, including this year’s historic World Championship win for the Women's Canoe Slalom Kayak Team.

“Kim is also a champion for Australian High Performance Sport’s united vision to win well and has provided an environment for athletes to thrive both on and off the water.

“I would like to congratulate Phil and Kim for ensuring stability for Paddle Australia. This will support sustainable success, not only on the road to Paris but as we look towards LA2028.”