FORMER Wakefield Wildcats' Rugby League club employee Elliot Stroud has been appointed as York City's new commercial manager.

Stroud, who began his new job today, was the head of commercial operations at Super League club Wakefield for four years and he will carry out his role at KitKat Crescent on a full-time basis.

The 25-year-old has also previously worked as a chief executive for UniBond League football club Wakefield-Emley, where former Minsterman Christian Fox is a current member of the playing staff, and has spent time in Leeds United's commercial department.

Stroud will manage City's sales and marketing operations with key responsibilities including looking after current sponsors, as well as attracting new investors into the club.

He will report to City's commercial director Pete Davis, who welcomed the appointment, saying: "We are delighted to appoint someone of Elliot's calibre to the York City commercial team.

"Commercial development and providing sponsors with the best possible opportunities at the club is key to York City's future success. I am sure Elliot will help to fulfil our commercial vision."

Stroud has an honours degree in Events Management and is also studying for a postgraduate masters in Sports Management.

Updated: 11:19 Monday, June 27, 2005