Mariners land new chief executive
Grimsby Town Football Club has appointed Debbie Cook as its new chief executive.
Cook worked in local government for 22 years, before becoming CEO of a national health charity in 2011. Her most recent position was chief executive at YMCA Humber, an organisation which she led for just under two and a half years.
Chair of GTFC, Jason Stockwood, said, “We are delighted to appoint Debbie to this role. We have some excellent, passionate and committed staff already at the Club and expanded leadership will harness all of that to ensure that the Club is as effective as it can be to support all stakeholders.”
Cook said: ‘What an amazing opportunity this is! I feel privileged to take on the role and work with Jason, Andrew and the team to build a values-led, high performing club. I have witnessed first-hand some of the wonderful work going on in Grimsby, it’s a fabulous place to be a part of. The power of football to connect families and enhance a community is a very special thing, making this opportunity a true gift. I am really looking forward to getting started. It will be great to read the results of the recent fan survey and to continue listening. There is plenty to do, but the impact will be immense for Club and community.”
Stockwood added: “I am delighted that Ian Fleming will remain at the Club in the new expanded role of chief operating officer. Ian’s vast experience and knowledge is going to be incredibly important to us and I look forward to building on the excellent relationship we have already established.”
Meanwhile, the Mariners have also announced that Young’s Seafood is to continue as the its official club sponsor for the coming 2021-22 season.
This will be the 18th year of the collaboration and is now one of the longest-running shirt sponsorships in world football.
Stockwood said: “We are once again delighted that Young’s Seafood Ltd has committed to support their local football club for another season. As new owners, we have been thrilled with the steadfast support shown by one of the country’s most well-known brands. We are also looking forward to working together closely in the coming months at engaging with all areas of the community as we strive for a brighter future for all.”
Simon Smith, CEO at Young’s said: “We’re extremely pleased to be renewing our sponsorship deal with Grimsby Town Football club for the 18th consecutive season. It’s more important than ever for us to be supporting our local team and we hope it will be the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both the Club under new ownership and for the fans who can finally enjoy the atmosphere and thrill of a game in person again.
“We’re always fully committed to the club and the local community, so we’re very proud to work with Grimsby Town and continue to support them in the league and in the community as they seek to improve the health and wellbeing of our local residents.”
