Jon Flatman, chief executive officer of Barnsley Football Club, has been appointed as the new chief executive of Cardiff Rugby. He will assume the role in January.
Flatman said his priorities at the Welsh rugby club are to secure private, independent ownership and establish a long-term future at Cardiff Arms Park.
"My mandate is clear – to build a resilient commercial foundation off the pitch so we can fuel a fierce, competitive and ultimately winning team on it," Flatman said. "Taking the club back into private, independent ownership and resolving a long-term future at Cardiff Arms Park are the two major priorities."
Flatman's track record
During his time at Barnsley, Flatman played a role in securing a long-term lease and development at Oakwell Stadium. He also served on the English Football League board as a representative of League One clubs.
His experience includes consultancy work with the Rugby League World Cup and a spell as chairman of York Rugby League Football Club, where he led the club's sale in 2022.
Flatman joined Barnsley in 2023 as chief revenue officer before being appointed permanent CEO in 2024, after a spell as interim.
Barnsley's next steps
Barnsley chairman Neerav Parekh thanked Flatman for his "relentless efforts" and said the club was already recruiting a replacement.
"Jon will always be welcome back at Oakwell, and we wish him all the luck for the future," Parekh said. "The process of recruiting a replacement is already under way, and we will communicate any update to our supporters at the earliest opportunity."
Cardiff Rugby has been without a full-time CEO for 18 months following Richard Holland's departure. The club remains owned by the Welsh Rugby Union. Managing director Jamie Muir will continue to lead the company until Flatman's arrival.