Armitage completed a Business Studies degree at Bradford University before joining British Airways straight from university.

 

He spent six years in various sales and marketing roles before moving to Avis UK where he was responsible for all marketing, including television advertisements.

 

From there, Armitage moved to Forte Hotels as marketing controller and thereafter marketing director at Forte Grand. 

 

He spent eight years at the Granada Group in their travel and TV rentals business as well as working in their technology operation.

 

Following his time at Granada, he worked for BoxClever in senior sales, marketing and commercial roles and as a director of various businesses.

 

Armitage has spent the last five years with the Carbon Neutral Company, most recently in the United States, as President.

 

He left them earlier this year.

 

Armitage was a hockey player at school, university and British Airways and is keen to combine his love of sport with his strong marketing, commercial and operational background.

 

He was chosen from a field of more than 85 applicants.

 

Armitage said: “I am delighted to be joining England Hockey at a very exciting stage in their development plans and very much look forward to working with the clubs, players and colleagues to continue to build a vibrant, inclusive and successful sport.”

 

England Hockey Chief Executive Sally Munday said: “As the premier Olympic team sport, the next few years presents a fantastic opportunity for hockey.

 

"Mark brings valuable marketing and commercial experience and his role will be key in achieving our aspirations for hockey to be a dynamic, successful sport for all.”