Don Barrell, currently head of performance programmes and pathways at England Rugby and a former professional player at Saracens RFC, is to take charge of Greenhouse Sports, which engages young people in sport.

He takes over as chief executive of the charity, which at the end of August 2022 had an annual income of £6m and employed more than 100 staff, in February 2024.

Barrell has been involved in sport his entire career, involving stints at the RFU as head of regional academies and advisory roles at the Premier League, Southampton, and the Six Nations tournament.

“Those that know me and have worked with me will know that the values and culture of this charity and its mission to deliver the positive development of young people to improve life outcomes resonates completely with me,” said Barrell.

“Greenhouse Sports has become an exemplar of how sport can have a transformational effect upon individuals and communities, particularly those too often left at the margins of our society.

“I look forward to joining the Greenhouse ‘Team for Life’ in 2024 and supporting the Greenhouse coaches, staff, trustees and supporters in delivering even more opportunity for everyone they work with."

The charity’s chair Like Ellis added: “We are delighted that Don is joining the Greenhouse family and we are excited to see his undoubted ability as a leader in coaching and in developing people to fulfil their potential to lead us towards the goals and ambitions we have for Greenhouse Sports.

“In particular for driving real change and opportunity for the young people and communities we support."

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