The announcement by the British Show Jumping Association (BSJA) of Astall to replace John Hales comes only a day after Di Cornish, formerly the chief executive at Brook Street Bureau and then became executive chairman at Blue Arrow Ltd, was unveiled as the organisation's new chief executive.

 

After graduating from the London School of Economics, Astall joined Accenture where she has been for the last 25 years.

 

Accenture are widely acknowledged as being a global leader in the management consulting, technology and outsourcing sector.

 

In her previous role as Accenture’s UK Managing Director, Astall was pivotal in the strategic approach of how the BSJA should assist junior and young riders to reach their full potential.

 

In 2000, the Junior and Young Rider Pathway Programme was implemented supported by sponsorship from Accenture.

 

This sponsorship and strategic approach continues – proving its success with medals won for Britain at the Junior and Young Rider European Championships each year since its implementation.

 

Astall is no stranger to equestrianism having learnt to ride at the age of seven in Jersey where she was born.

 

Competitive riding followed in her teens including racing and show jumping.

 

Currently she competes at amateur level BSJA, British Eventing and British Dressage.

 

Astall has experience in supporting Olympic sports having led Accenture’s involvement as a premier partner for the successful London 2012 bid.

 

Also, alongside the BSJA Young Rider programme, Astall worked closely with the Royal Yachting Association to confirm Accenture’s sponsorship of Skandia Team GBR for Beijing in 2008.

 

She is also a vice-patron of Working Families, a Trustee of the Social Mobility Foundation and on the Council of Governors for the London School of Economics.

 

Michael Mac, chairman of the BSJA, said: “We feel extremely fortunate to have someone of Lis Astall’s calibre joining us.

 

"Her support of British Show Jumping has always been invaluable and we look forward to working with her in the lead up to 2012.

 

"I would also like thank John Hales for the tremendous commitment, time and energy he has given the role in addition to the support he gives British Show Jumping as one of the UK’s leading owners in both Arko III and Russel."

 

Astall said “I feel honoured to accept the position of president within British Show Jumping especially bearing in mind the exciting time ahead with London 2012 looming.

 

"I am extremely keen to be an active President and put something back into a sport which continues to bring me so much enjoyment."