Irish suffer eve-of-Premiership blow as CEO Facer quits

London Irish have launched a search for a new CEO after confirming that Brian Facer, who joined the Exiles from Northampton in November 2017, will leave the club in early 2021 to take up the chief executive position at British Cycling.

Allan Robson, London Irish chairman, said: “We are obviously disappointed that Brian is leaving London Irish, but we wish him every success for the future in a role that is understandably of huge appeal to him, as a keen cycling enthusiast and follower of the sport.

“He has played an integral role during his time with us and will continue to do so in the coming months as we transition into our new stadium in Brentford at a time when we are also continuing to navigate our way through the Covid-19 pandemic.

“If these last few months have taught us anything, it’s that we have got a very strong executive management team in place at the club and we have every confidence in their ability and dedication to continue to steer us in a positive direction whilst we consider our next move.

“A new season is upon us and everyone at the club, from the players to the coaches to the staff, and of course our loyal supporters, are all pulling in the same direction – we are excited about the campaign ahead, our first back in London after more than 20 years.”

Facer added: “I would like to take some time to thank all the board of directors, staff, players and supporters of London Irish where I have spent a very happy and eventful three years. We have achieved some significant things, such as completing the move to the Brentford Community Stadium; bringing in a world-class coaching team led by Declan Kidney; retaining our place in the Premiership; and signing some of the best players in the world.

“The supporters made me feel very welcome and I believe we have had a great relationship during my time. And the staff have never given anything less than 100 per-cent, not least during what has been a very challenging last seven months.

“Special thanks to Mick Crossan as the club’s president, whose investment in the club underpinned what we have achieved in that time. I will look back fondly on my time at what is a special club and will always feel a part of the Exiles.”