Irish appoint new chief executive

London Irish have appointed Andy Martin as their new chief executive, replacing Graham Walpole who spent less than a year in the role.

Martin, who is currently a managing director at Barclays Commercial Bank, joins Irish on 1 September.

Martin said his aim was "to assist London Irish in becoming the best team in Europe - both on and off the pitch."

He added: "The opportunity to combine my passion for sport with my commercial experience is one I am excited about."

Martin has 18 years experience of building and leading international businesses across various industry segments.

Exiles' chairman Andrew Coppel said: "Andy has demonstrated a real track record of success in the sales function of Barclays, both regionally, in the UK, and globally.

"With his broad experience, I am confident that he can lead the club to greater financial success, building on the momentum created both on and off the pitch over the last two years."