Richard Holland appointed new Cardiff Blues Chief Executive Officer

Having had previous experience working as a former vice-president of corporate relations and sales at Celtic Manor and most recently Executive Director Chepstow and Hereford Racecourse, whilst also sitting on the operational board of Northern Racing, which operates nine race courses across the UK, including, Uttoxeter, Bath and Newcastle as well management agreement as own and operate Ffos Las, Richard has a wealth of experience in the sporting field.

Speaking of the appointment the 38-year-old said,

'I'm honoured, proud and excited to be appointed and the new Chief Executive Officer of Cardiff Blues and am very much looking forward to starting in the new role in January.'

'I've enjoyed my time with Chepstow and Hereford Racecourse and would like to thank everyone for all the support they have given me. My immediate focus is on delivering another Welsh National on the 27th of December which I'm sure will be a great occasion.'

'I'm very excited about the challenges that lie ahead with Cardiff Blues and taking over from Bob Norster, who has done a tremendous job. He is highly regarded in the rugby and commercial world.'

Holland comes from good rugby stock with his grandfather Phil Fletcher captaining the Cardiff RFC side during the 1932-33 season.

'I did play a bit of rugby in school and university and have got to know some of the players and staff at the Blues during my time as Chairman of Jamie Robinson's testimonial committee so it will be good to see some familiar faces there when I start.'

'Finally I'd like to thank Peter Thomas and the rest of the board for giving me this opportunity and look forward to working with them and the rest of the staff at the Blues as we look to drive the business onwards together.'

Cardiff Blues Chairman Peter Thomas added,

'We are glad to be able to announce Richard Holland will be starting in his new role as Cardiff Blues Chief Executive Officer in January 2012.'

'Richard has gained a considerable amount of experience in the commercial environment during his time at the Celtic Manor and Chepstow Racecourse and I'm sure he will do a great job in bringing this expertise to the rugby arena.'

'It is an exciting time for the Blues and Richard will lead a team of hard working, highly dedicated staff as we aim to move the Blues forward and I'm confident he will do an excellent job.'

'I would also like to put on record my gratitude and indebtedness to Bob Norster for all his hard work and dedication to this institution and indeed to Welsh Rugby for so long and the last 10 years as our CEO.'

'During his time in that role, Bob has overseen the formation of our Region that resulted from the restructuring of the game in Wales together with the major tasks of relocating both training and playing facilities. We thank him sincerely for his considerable efforts in helping to deliver such change that underpinned the team's most recent Cup successes both at home and abroad with our team still currently residing in the top tier of the Heineken Cup competition.'