The current chair of the lead trade body within the play sector, Mark Hardy, is stepping down after almost 10 years in the role.

Founded in 1984, the API campaigns at the highest levels for policy recognition for play and represents 85 per cent of the play industry. Under Mark’s leadership, the API’s profile has increased significantly with multiple campaigns gaining national press and TV coverage.

Minogue  has worked in the sport and play sector for the past 25 years – as CEO of Parkour UK, in local government and for Sport England. He has also been a member of the Play Safety Forum and British Standards Committee for playground equipment. His in-depth knowledge of the sector gives him a unique perspective, enabling him to add significant value to the membership and the play industry as a whole.

“The API has gone from strength to strength during Mark’s tenure and it will be a great privilege and challenge to build on this success. I’m excited to continue to raise the profile of children’s play and the crucial role that playgrounds have in ensuring the mental and physical health of a generation. I look forward to supporting our members and to working with them to promote the play industry,” said Minogue.