England Ice Hockey and Ice Hockey UK (IHUK) are excited to officially announce a new agreement which will see executive expertise and resources shared between the two organisations.

This initiative will further improve the connection between EIH and IHUK, particularly around administration, governance improvements and alignment of the performance pathway – bringing a greater sense of cohesion, planning and insight to the journey from Learn to Play to national programmes and, ultimately, Great Britain’s programme.

The agreement will see Henry Staelens, chief executive of IHUK, take up the same role at EIH to ensure complete oversight of both governing bodies.

IHUK and EIH chief executive Henry Staelens, said: “This has felt like a missing link for a long time, so I’m thrilled that we were able to make this happen for the continued growth of ice hockey – from Learn to Play, through to recreational, competitive and elite.

“Critically, this will also provide EIH with executive leadership to deliver day-to-day for the members, participants, coaches and support staff, whilst the board embarks on some important governance improvements.

“This is a new chapter for EIH, and I am looking forward to playing a part in bringing greater communication, transparency and growth to the organisation.”

Additionally, following an extensive, open-recruitment process, Grant King has been appointed as chief operating and development officer to work across both EIH and IHUK on day-to-day operations, supporting Henry to deliver the strategic aims of both organisations.

Grant was most recently managing director, human resources, in Europe, the Middle East and Africa with Jefferies Investment Bank, and has 20 years’ experience in the sector.

During this time, he has held several senior executive roles, with responsibility for financial controls, governance, strategic planning, people and operational functions across Europe, Canada and the US.

He also has an ice hockey background and is a former netminder representing Great Britain, as well as appearing for Slough Jets and Guildford Flames in the British National League between 1998 and 2003.

Most recently, Grant spent the past year on the board of IHUK, where he has been instrumental in supporting the enhancement of their governance practices, people processes and development of the IHUK strategy.

Given his appointment to this role, Grant will step down from his position on the IHUK Board.

Grant King said: “This is an exciting time to be involved and working alongside all the great people in the game of ice hockey.

“I am looking forward to driving simplicity and collaboration across the organisational structures, so that we operate more effectively and ensure investment in the highest impact areas.

“This will allow us to create better experiences at all stages of the game – from ‘learn to play’ through to developing potential superstars for Great Britain Ice Hockey.”

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