He left the FFA in 2005 to join Cricket Australia as Executive General Manager, Game and Market Development but will return to football to start his new role next month.

“Damien has a wonderful mix of senior executive experience in the sports industry and a life-long passion for football,” said FFA CEO Ben Buckley today.

“His recent professional focus on game and market development is particularly relevant for the A-League and FFA’s strategic objective to connect with the grassroots and convert participants into fans.

“I’m delighted to have secured a high-calibre executive in Damien. I know he has the right skills, energy and football administration knowledge to implement our goals for a stable and sustainable A-League.”

de Bohun thanked FFA for the opportunity.

“Football has always been a big part of my life as a player, coach and referee," he said. "More recently, some of my most enjoyable experiences have been coaching our son’s junior sides and watching the next generation of boys and girls develop a love for football.

“But it’s the professional challenge of managing the Hyundai A-League that has me most excited about the new role.

“I think the current structure of the A-League provides a very solid foundation to build on the growth in attendances, TV audiences and memberships last season and I can’t wait to get started.”