By Duncan Mackay

Sara SutcliffeJuly 2 - Sara Sutcliffe, former legal director of the British Olympic Association (BOA), has been named interim chief executive at the English Table Tennis Association (ETTA) following the retirement of Richard Yule, who had been in the position for 18 years.


Sutcliffe had been at the BOA since 2001, serving as the director of legal and human resources, before leaving at the end of last year in the wake of London 2012. 

Sutcliffe will work under new ETTA chairman, Andy Seward, who is due to take over later this month. 

"After serving 12 years at the BOA, it's time for a natural career change," said Sutcliffe.

"The new role presents a good career opportunity to move to senior management.

"Table tennis is a great sport and a sport that has huge potential to grow in the UK.

"At the same time, modernising the governing body of professional sport associations is a big trend in the industry.

"I will utilise my skills set to help modernising the governance structure of the ETTA and putting in place an effective day-to-day management.

"With the new changes, the interim role will potentially turn into a long-term role."

Since her departure from the BOA, Sutcliffe has also been appointed to a number of other positions, including non-executive director at GB Taekwondo and British Gymnastics.

"During the selection and interview process involving Andy Seward, Sport England and myself, Sara was the outstanding candidate and I wish her and table tennis every success now and in the future under the new board," said Alex Murdoch, current chairman of the ETTA. 

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