UKA’s Chief Operating Officer Mark Munro is set to leave the organisation following a successful 12 years working within athletics.

Munro, who joined UKA in early 2021 as Development Director, had previously served as CEO at Scottish Athletics. Within UKA he fulfilled the role of Interim CEO until Jack Buckner’s appointment in Summer 2022 and more recently fulfilled the role of COO.

The former athlete who represented Scotland at age group level in hill running is set to join the University of Edinburgh as Director of Sport and Active Health.

UKA CEO Jack Buckner said:

“In the short time that Mark and I have worked together we’ve enjoyed a really positive collaboration and I am sorry that athletics is losing someone of his calibre. That said it is a fantastic role and opportunity for Mark and the whole organisation wishes him well.”

UKA Chair Ian Beattie, who worked alongside Munro at Scottish Athletics before also joining the NGB said:

“Athletics will greatly miss Mark’s drive and determination that he has brought to all his roles in the sport. I’ve been fortunate to work with him across two organisations and whilst it is a big loss to athletics to see him move to a different sector, I have no doubt he will be hugely successful in his new role.”

Mark Munro said:

“It is with a heavy heart that I will be leaving UK Athletics and I am very grateful to Ian Beattie and the Board at UKA for the opportunity and support over the last couple of years. I would like to wish them along with the sport all the best for the coming year as we head towards the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games”.