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Susanna Dinnage has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the Premier League - becoming one of the most powerful women in British sport.

The global president of Discovery’s Animal Planet brand, Susanna will start early in the new year when Richard Scudamore steps down after 19 years in charge. She will assume control of a business worth an estimated £3billion a year.

“I am excited at the prospect of taking on this fantastic role,” Dinnage said after her appointment was confirmed at an extraordinary meeting in London.

“The Premier League means so much to so many people. It represents the pinnacle of professional sport and the opportunity to lead such a dynamic and inspirational organisation is a great privilege.

"With the support of clubs and the team, I look forward to extending the success of the League for many years to come.”

Bruce Buck, Chairman of Chelsea and the Premier League’s Nominations Committee, said: "We are very pleased to appoint such a capable leader to this important role.

"We had a very strong field, but Susanna was the outstanding choice given her track record in managing complex businesses through transformation and digital disruption.

"She is a leading figure in the broadcasting industry, a proven business executive and a great developer of people. She is ideally suited to the role and we are confident she will be able to take the Premier League on to new heights.

"Richard Scudamore, having provided exceptional stewardship for almost 20 years, will leave us at the end of the year in great shape and with an excellent Executive Team and Board able to fully support Susanna."

 

Minutes after the announcement, it was revealed that England's top-flight clubs have been asked to stump up £250,000 by Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck for a £5million golden handshake for Scudamore, 59 - a move that has been widely criticised during times of real austerity.

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