Simon Crooks has been appointed as the new CEO of the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA), a key step in progressing the delivery of infrastructure for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Crooks brings over 40 years of local and international experience in major project delivery, most recently leading the Queen’s Wharf infrastructure precinct in Brisbane, and is widely respected across industry and government for his collaborative and transparent approach.
He officially began his role on 1 August 2025, just days before today’s Australian Constructors Association (ACA) hosts its flagship Foundations and Frontiers forum (FF25) in Brisbane.
Jon Davies, CEO of the ACA, described Crooks as “a key piece in the Games delivery jigsaw” and emphasised his deep knowledge of Queensland’s infrastructure and extensive project leadership experience, stating: “he’s well placed to make sure the work done now delivers lasting benefits.”
Davies also highlighted the importance of the upcoming FF25 forum, which will focus on productivity and feature international experts such as Sir David Higgins, CEO of the London 2012 Olympics, and GIICA Chair Stephen Conry.
Conry noted that Crooks’ appointment followed a rigorous global search and was unanimously supported by the GIICA Board, marking a critical milestone for the Authority.
He said: “Simon will provide strong leadership and bring enormous project delivery experience and skills to this vital role. 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.”
Crooks said: “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.”
He added: “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.”
The appointment of Crooks is a key requirement of the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games Arrangements Act 2021, and under his leadership, GIICA will oversee the delivery of 17 new and upgraded venues in line with the 2032 Delivery Plan.
