The Premier League has appointed the president of Discovery’s Animal Planet Susanna Dinnage to the role of chief executive.
Dinnage, who was previously president of Discovery Networks UK and Ireland, will replace outgoing executive chairman Richard Scudamore, who is set to leave the organisation at the end of the year.
Dinnage, who is set to assume her new role in early 2019, will be chief executive with the responsibility of Scudamore’s role split with a non-executive chair who is still to be appointed.
Bruce Buck, chairman of Chelsea and the Premier League’s Nominations Committee, said: “We are very pleased to appoint such a capable leader to this important role.
“We had a very strong field, but Susanna was the outstanding choice given her track record in managing complex businesses through transformation and digital disruption.
“She is a leading figure in the broadcasting industry, a proven business executive and a great developer of people. She is ideally suited to the role and we are confident she will be able to take the Premier League on to new heights.”
Dinnage, a Fulham fan, whose previous roles also include planning and schedule director at Channel 5, said: “I am excited at the prospect of taking on this fantastic role.
“The Premier League means so much to so many people. It represents the pinnacle of professional sport and the opportunity to lead such a dynamic and inspirational organisation is a great privilege.
“With the support of clubs and the team, I look forward to extending the success of the League for many years to come.”
