Bristol Bears Rugby Club has appointed a new chief executive. Tom Tainton was previously chief operating officer and has worked for the Premiership side for a decade.
The 36-year-old Bristolian will work closely with Pat Lam, the club's director of rugby, and the board of directors to create structures that will support the men’s and women’s teams to compete for silverware, the club said on Tuesday.
The appointment forms part of a long-term strategy aimed at transforming Bristol Bears into an "innovative, digitally-led and financially sustainable organisation".
Mr Tainton said: “It’s a privilege to lead my boyhood club in a new chapter for the Bears and I’m passionate about playing my part in its future.
“We are an organisation that prides ourselves on being different and pushing the boundaries – this is an exciting time for rugby and our ambition is for Bears to be at the forefront of leading that positive change.
“I’m looking forward to continuing to work with the owners, board, staff and the players to bring sustainable success to Bristol.”
Bristol Sport group chief Gavin Marshall said he was "confident" Mr Tainton would "drive the club forward with innovation and ambition".
“On behalf of everyone at the club, I want to congratulate to Tom on his well-deserved appointment to CEO of Bristol Bears," he said.
“Tom’s passion, commitment, and deep understanding of our values have made a lasting impact, and we’re excited for the future under his leadership. His journey with the Bears has been remarkable."
Chairman Chris Booy added: “Tom has worked exceptionally hard for the club throughout his tenure, always putting the club’s interests first. I know Tom’s enthusiasm and skills will support the club’s continued growth.”
Last month, Bristol Bears missed out on a place in the Gallagher Premiership final .
Bath Rugby beat Bristol Bears 34-20 at the Recreation Ground in Bath. Despite the defeat, Mr Lam told the BBC he is still motivated to take the team to a Premiership final next season.
