Sports development charity Greenhouse Sports has hired an academic to its newly created role of director of impact, innovation and engagement.

Professor Camilla Knight joins in June from Swansea University following a transitional consulting period to bring “her international expertise across youth sport”, said the charity.

He specialisms include the role of sport on child development and parental involvement in youth sport.

She is also a registered sport psychologist and accredited sport and exercise scientist.

During her career she has worked at Sport Wales, Sport New Zealand, Sport Singapore, the Rugby Football Union, Welsh Rugby Union and Swim Wales.

Her responsibility is to help the charity be “an insight driven, data-informed organisation, delivering programmes that have the maximum positive impact on young people”.

“She will provide the strategic guidance to ensure that all Greenhouse Sports activities are effective, efficient and reach those most in need,” it added.

Knight said: “I am excited to have an opportunity to draw on my research insights and knowledge to support Greenhouse Sports to further make a difference in the lives of young people.

“Over the last 15 years, I have been able to really dive into the world of youth sport and particularly understand the experiences and development of young people, parents, and coaches.

“Research consistently shows that sport can be a beneficial vehicle for social change when it is provided in appropriate ways and with the necessary support, I am hoping to be able to bring these insights to help Greenhouse Sports impact even more effectively and efficiently on young people.”

Greenhouse Sports chief executive Don Barrell added: “Camilla’s experience aligns greatly with the work we do day-in-day-out at Greenhouse, helping to shape the lives of young people through sport, who may not otherwise have these opportunities.

“She is a key step in our mission to become the first thought in positive youth development and ultimately, ensure that every child we work with gets a fair chance to succeed.”

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