UK Athletics has confirmed the staffing structure for the Performance team as the organisation moves into a crucial 2022 with multiple major championships taking place.

Following the open recruitment process for the Technical Director role and a number of interviews, it has become clear that a small number of desired candidates are unable to leave their current respective roles until after the 2022 Summer season due to the highly congested athletics calendar.

As a result, interim CEO Mark Munro has opted to make a number of internal changes, and establish a management group of external experts who provide strategic support and challenge to the plans, systems and structures that need to be put in place.

Therefore whilst not appointing a Technical Director for the time being, Tommy Yule will step up as Head of Performance for the period, whilst Steve Paulding will step up as Head of Operations.

Interim CEO Mark Munro said:

“Following the process where we spoke to a number of candidates, it was agreed that the individuals we felt to be our preferred candidates were not available and the current market is unlikely to change this side of next season.

“This role is far too important to appoint in a hurry and also, with New Year fast approaching we need individuals in place now making decisions that support our athletes and coaches.

“We believe that the appointment of Tommy Yule as Head of Performance, supported by an expert performance management group, will provided excellent support, check and challenge as we continue to plan and prioritise the support to athletes and coaches in this area.

“We have already seen that our performance team have been able to react swiftly to the changing landscape of travel restrictions and adapted the warm weather training plans for New Year, and empowering Tommy and Steve to make decisions quickly and decisively will be the best for the athletes who need certainty ahead of this incredibly busy year.”