Scottish Rugby Union appoints top marketer

The Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) has appointed Celtic League tournament director Keith Grainger as its commercial and marketing director.

Grainger will start his job at the SRU in January. Previously, he has worked in the commercial departments at rugby clubs Leicester, Northampton Saints and Newport.

Grainger takes over the SRU marketing post from Phil Anderton, who was promoted to chief executive earlier this year. The SRU has been searching for a replacement since March, following a restructure of its marketing department (MW March 18).

In the restructure, marketing manager Alistair Russell was appointed head of marketing and sponsorship director David James was promoted to commercial director. Both will report to Grainger. Mike Keohane has been appointed to the newly created position of director of corporate affairs.

Grainger will also become director of professional rugby, which was originally advertised separately. In the dual role, his responsibilities will include managing marketing for Scottish rugby teams Glasgow, Edinburgh and The Borders, as well as the development of the commercial interests of the international rugby team.

The Welsh Rugby Union recently parted company with its own marketing and commercial director, Gwyn Thomas (MW September 23). He will not be replaced.