Leeds Rhinos bring in former Manchester City backroom manager

Leeds Rhinos has hired a new business development manager – Ben Turnbull.

He has 20 years of experience in marketing and sponsorship roles in organisations across various sports including Jockey Club Racecourses, Totesport, Betfred, Manchester City, Rugby League World Cup 2021 and the Rugby Football League.

Turnbull said: “Rugby League has always been my passion and prior to Leeds Rhinos I spent three years as commercial manager at the Rugby Football League.

“My major focus was on bringing new brands to the sport and driving revenue across the England national team, Challenge Cup, Women’s rugby league, Disability rugby league and various other community driven initiatives.

“I’m aiming to build on my success at the RFL and to introduce new partnerships to the Leeds Rhinos family at a local, regional, and national level.

“The Leeds Rhinos men’s team is the most successful and best supported club in Super League.

“Alongside the fast-growing women’s team, wheelchair, physical disability, and netball team, it all amounts to a massive opportunity for brands to engage with a large and loyal fanbase located in one of the most vibrant cities in the UK.”

Rob Oates, commercial director, said: “We’re delighted Ben has joined our talented team at an especially exciting time for the organisation.

“Our One Team/Team Rhinos approach is the first of its kind in UK sport – incorporating a family of teams across rugby and netball all under the same management and brand.

“We’re looking forward to Ben getting out into the marketplace, telling our story, and creating new partnerships that help businesses with their success and growth.

“2022 will also mark the first full year we’re able to utilise our world class stadium and state-of-the-art facilities following the £45m redevelopment completed in 2019; a mouth-watering prospect for our fans, partners, players, staff and all involved.”