Northampton Saints Foundation has today announced the appointment of Catherine Deans as Managing Director.
Deans brings a wealth of experience in the charity and leisure sectors having held senior positions at Cancer Research UK and Huntingdon District Council. She will lead a team of five permanent staff and be supported by six trustees.
“I am delighted to announce the appointment of Catherine as Managing Director,” said Jon Drown, Chair of Trustees for Northampton Saints Foundation.
“Catherine is a highly-regarded leader in her field and her appointment is testament to her strong leadership credentials which include more than 20 years of experience in charity, leisure and education.
“The Board received significant interest in the role and Catherine’s highly-relevant expertise and strong charity background make her the ideal candidate to continue to build momentum for the future.”
“We are delighted to have appointed her and are confident she is well placed to deliver the next phase of the Foundation’s strategy.”
The Foundation – which gained full charitable status in 2018 – sets out to improve the lives of thousands of people within the Northamptonshire community and aims to use the Club’s values and the power of sport to educate, inspire and support young people.
Matt Goode, the Foundation’s Partnerships and Fundraising Manager has stepped down from his role to pursue other projects. Prior to working for the Foundation, Goode successfully managed Saints’ HITZ programme for seven years – Premiership Rugby’s award-winning education and employability initiative.
While at the Foundation Goode played a central role in securing and establishing corporate partnerships with Boost and Portman Asset Finance, as well as managing a number of significant fundraising and voluntary activities.
“Matt leaves the Foundation in strong place and has been a key figure in its initial development and successes. He leaves with our gratitude and very best wishes for the future,” commented Drown.