Cardiff Rugby appoint Barnsley's Flatman as CEO

Cardiff Rugby have appointed Barnsley Football Club's chief executive officer Jon Flatman as their new CEO.

Flatman will assume the role in January and says he will prioritise securing private, independent ownership and establishing a long-term future at Cardiff Arms Park.

During his time at Barnsley, Flatman played a role in securing a long-term lease and development at Oakwell Stadium, and served on the English Football League (EFL) board as a representative of League One clubs.

His experience also includes consultancy work with the Rugby League World Cup and a spell as chairman of York Rugby League Football Club, where he led the club's sale in 2022.

"My mandate is clear – to build a resilient commercial foundation off the pitch so we can fuel a fierce, competitive and ultimately winning team on it," said Flatman.

"There are well-documented challenges, but our commitment to the club and its people is absolute.

"Taking the club back into private, independent ownership and resolving a long-term future at Cardiff Arms Park are the two major priorities."

Flatman has worked at Barnsley since 2023, when he joined the Tykes as chief revenue officer before being appointed permanent CEO, after a spell as interim, in 2024.

In a statement confirming his impending departure, Barnsley chairman Neerav Parekh thanked Flatman for his "relentless efforts".

"Jon will always be welcome back at Oakwell, and we wish him all the luck for the future," Parekh added.

"The process of recruiting a replacement is already under way, and we will communicate any update to our supporters at the earliest opportunity."

Cardiff have been without a full-time CEO since Richard Holland left the role 18 months ago.

The club, which is still owned by the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), have confirmed that managing director Jamie Muir will continue to lead the company ahead of Flatman's arrival.