By Duncan Mackay

Nicole Sapstead has been appointed interim chief executive of UK Anti-Doping ©UKADUK Anti-Doping (UKAD) has appointed its director of operations Nicole Sapstead interim chief executive following the resignation of Andy Parkinson. 


Sapstead will assume her new role on January 1, the same day that Parkinson is due to become chief executive of British Rowing.

Parkinson announced earlier this month that he was leaving UKAD having been the founding chief executive of the organisation in November 2009. 

The recruitment for the permanent chief executive position is ongoing, UKAD revealed. 

"With over 15 years anti-doping experience, Nicole has excellent depth of knowledge and respect among the global anti-doping community," said David Kenworthy, chair of UKAD. 

"This appointment has been made to ensure strong leadership is in place as we start 2015 with a new World Anti-Doping Code.

"This will help us manage a smooth transition to a permanent appointment in the spring.

"All of UKAD's Directors, supported by the Board, have extensive experience to lead the organisation through this period and support Nicole during this time."

Sapstead has worked in anti-doping since 1998, first as assistant to the director and legal advisor at the Drug Control Centre at King's College, and then in various roles at UK Sport, where she progressed to head of operations before joining UKAD when it became independent five years ago. 

"This is an exciting opportunity at this busy time for anti-doping worldwide," she said.

"UKAD's success depends on its team of committed and skilled individuals who I am confident will assist me in delivering the best possible service to supporting clean athletes in the UK."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
November 2014: British Rowing announce UK Anti-Doping boss as new chief executive