Executive search specialist Warren Partners has launched a new sports sector practice, led by directors Mike Penny and Tom Manger, and advised by Niels de Vos, chief executive of UK Athletics.

The new practice builds on the consultancy’s growing expertise in recruiting senior executives for clubs and sports governing bodies. It also has access to a bespoke network of established sports professionals, who will advise on all aspects of research, profiling and shortlisting.

This advisory panel is headed by de Vos, who is also a National Olympic Committee member and was previously chief executive at Guinness Premiership rugby club Sale Sharks.

“As both a candidate and recruiter, I’ve been impressed by the innovative Warren Partners approach,” says de Vos. “Senior people handle the brief, with the detailed knowledge and professionalism to act as very effective brand ambassadors for the client.”