Former hurdler Francis Smith named St Johnstone chief executive

St Johnstone have appointed former hurdler Francis Smith as their new chief executive.

The 42-year-old Scot, who has served as the CEO of Saints’ Community Trust for the past two-and-a-half years, takes over from Stan Harris.

Harris held the role for the past year and helped oversee the recent change of ownership between the Brown family and Adam Webb.

Smith, who won a bronze medal in the 400m hurdles at the 2007 UK Championships, is described by the Perth club as having “an abundance of experience as an operations manager and a business development executive”.

“I am honoured and proud to be named the chief executive of such a special football club,” Smith told Saints’ website.

“There is a great opportunity to drive forward and in a positive direction. It is an exciting time where we will be working hard to bring the vision of Adam and our investors to life.

“I know the majority of the staff within the club already and have a good working relationship with them.

“We have a massive opportunity commercially at this club. We need to make sure we are driving business Monday to Friday and not just on a Saturday. That is something we will be looking at immediately.”

Owner Webb hailed Smith as “a dynamic leader and a perfect fit for the club going forward”.

The American added: “His success at the Community Trust has been remarkable. The club has numerous improvements and initiatives under way and Fran’s high-energy and organisational ability will serve us well.”