BRISBANE – Former World Cup Referee and Bigmate Managing Director Mark Shield has been named as one of 12 candidates nominated to stand for an FFA Director position at Football Federation Australia’s upcoming AGM on 19th November 2018.

Mark is an FFA Hall of Fame Member with extensive experience in all levels of football. He started his refereeing career in regional Queensland and rose through the ranks to experience every level of football right through to FIFA World Cups in 2002 and 2006. Mark has first hand knowledge of football from around the world and also understands the importance of grassroots football for Australia’s future success on the World stage.

“I see the massive potential for football in this country and I would love the opportunity to have a role in the future direction of the game I love. One of the key strengths I can bring to the board is an independent, pragmatic point of view.” Shield said.

Mark is also co-owner of cutting edge technology company Bigmate, that does business across Australia and Asia for Government and Blue Chip organisations. Mark has applied the same passion and thinking he developed in sport to his career in business, handling the day to day challenges surrounding corporate governance, strategy, technology and culture.

Bigmate Chairman Graham Smith said, “We are very proud to see our Managing Director nominated for the Board of the FFA. Mark’s experience in football, business and governance and his sound judgement make him an ideal candidate.”

“If chosen, the impartiality and integrity shown in Mark’s domestic and international refereeing will be reflected in his performance as a director,” Chairman Smith said.