Hull KR continue transition with new appointment

Hull KR are a side in transition as they make plenty of efforts to impress IMG, as highlighted by multiple sponsorships announced last week and the appointment of a new chairman, and they’ve now added their first non-executive director to the new board.

The Robins have appointed James McNicol to the new board of directors that has been formed with the arrival of Paul Sewell as chairman.

KR announced the appointment in a statement posted to their website.

“Hull KR is delighted to announce the appointment of James McNicol to the newly formed board of directors. 

“Earlier in the month the club recruited Paul Sewell, Chair of award-winning East Hull company Sewell Group, to lead a new board which will work alongside the club’s Chief Executive, Paul Lakin, and support the Robins’ owner Neil Hudgell.

“Recruitment of established business leaders to help take the club to the next level is well underway, with James the first to commit.”

This is a big step for the side and the future of how they’ll operate under new leadership, particularly given the importance of club management with the introduction of the RFL’s new partner IMG who will uphold standards and try to transform the game commercially.

Welcome home James McNicol 🙌

We are delighted to announce the first appointment to our new board of directors 👉https://t.co/lz6GWaN6Gp #UpTheRobins🔴⚪️ pic.twitter.com/D38kkTVB2F

— Hull KR (@hullkrofficial) December 12, 2022

McNicol, a lifelong fan, said: “I’m delighted to be on board. My goal is to assist Hull KR to provide an environment and team where in forty years time a young boy from East Hull can look back with pride, and reflect on a golden era for the club.

“There was an inevitability about getting involved, certainly since my Dad passed away. This club is in my blood, but I am far enough away from it, living away, that there is a level of distance too. That will help with any of the board decisions because I’ll be able to assess it with a level head.

“I love winning, I love being successful, and I love being part of a great team. That’s what I hope I will bring and contribute to the club.”

New chairman Sewell also commented on the appointment.

“The first appointment to our new board is a fantastic story.

“A hugely successful global businessman, returning to his roots in East Hull, to follow his late father and former Chair Colin – is everything that this club is about. He is a wonderful signing for us on every level.”