The former boss of Everton and Super League Rugby, who recently joined PwC, has become chairman of a North West football club owned by one of the region's most successful businessmen.
Robert Elstone has joined Stockport County FC in the non-executive role in a move which the National League side said was their "biggest off pitch signing in decades, and demonstrates the club’s investment into its future success".
Club owner Mark Stott, who founded the Vita Group, will step down from his temporary position as chairman, after purchasing the club in January 2020.
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Mr Elstone's experience includes sports consulting at Deloitte with clients including the Scottish Premier League, Nike and Juventus, commercial and media rights exploitation at Sky Sports, leadership of Everton Football Club for almost a decade and most recently, executive chairman of Super League.
He is currently employed by PwC as a specialist industry adviser.
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Mr Stott said: "Robert’s reputation within the world of sport proceeds him thanks to the amazing work he did at Everton.
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"We’re delighted to welcome such a talented and experienced leader into the County camp.
"It’s taken some time to find the right person for this role, but I’m certain that with Robert as chair, the club will be able to realise its potential, drawing on his experience and knowledge and collaborating with the existing board.
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"The fact that he already lives in Stockport and is part of the community is a huge bonus."
Mr Elstone added: "This is an incredibly exciting time to join County. The club has so much potential, and I am certain, an exciting future ahead.
"I’m really looking to being part of that and look forward to working with the fans and the community to help make this a reality."