England Hockey announce new director

With more than 27 years' worth of experience at the forefront of business both at home and abroad, Swann will bring her insight to England Hockey as they drive forward with their vision of creating a Nation Where Hockey Matters.

Listed among the 50 most powerful women in international business, Swann transformed the fortunes of WH Smith before becoming CEO at SSP Group plc, a global food and beverage business with a £2billion turnover.

England Hockey non-executive chairman Royston Hoggarth said: "On behalf of the board of directors I would like to officially welcome Kate to England Hockey.

"Kate's appointment comes at a time when our sport continues to grow exponentially – last year we successfully hosted the Unibet EuroHockey Championships and then the Hockey Champions Trophy just last month.

"With the men's World League next year and the Women's Hockey World Cup in 2018, Kate's arrival can only further heighten our potential for growth and represents a considerable coup for us as a sport."

Swann said: "I feel very honoured to be joining the board of England Hockey.

"England Hockey has already made great strides, both in terms of major events but also with regards to participation across all ages.

"As a passionate hockey fan I look forward to helping shape our strategy going forward."

Sportsbeat 2016