New ball game for ex-GMG boss Dodson
MARK Dodson, the former chief executive of the Guardian Media Group’s North West operations – which included the Manchester Evening News, – has landed the top job with Scotland’s Rugby Union.
Dodson, who left GMG after the sale of the MEN and the weekly North West titles to Triniity Mirror last year, said: “I am delighted to be given the opportunity to lead Scottish Rugby, a globally recognised organisation, as it continues the development of the game throughout Scotland.”
He will take up his new role, which is based in Edinburgh, on Spetember 16.
Scottish Rugby said he had been appointed after an “extensive recruitment process” led by its chairman, Sir Moir Lockhead, and Scottish Rugby President and former Scotland and British & Irish Lions captain, Ian McLauchlan.
While working in media and media sales for more than 30 years, Dodson has been a keen rugby fan, both as a player and spectator for many years. He is regular at Sale Sharks matches.
Commenting on his new challenge he said: “I very much look forward to working with the staff and the board and, of course, getting to know all the key rugby stakeholders in the months ahead.
“With playing numbers growing in recent years, with the national team currently ranked seventh in the world and preparing to compete in the Rugby World Cup, I am fortunate to be joining at such an exciting time.”
Scottish Rugby President, Ian McLauchlan, added: “I am delighted that we have been able to secure Mark as our new chief executive.
” He was the outstanding candidate in a very strong field and brings a wealth of business and commercial experience which will stand the organisation in good stead in the years ahead.”
