James Roby appointed Partnership Manager (Commercial & Community)

St.Helens’ record appearance maker will continue in his role as a Club Ambassador while returning to the Club in a full-time capacity as its new Partnership Manager (Commercial & Community).

The role will see Roby work across the Club’s off-field departments and alongside the Saints Community Development Foundation, using his leadership qualities, experience and standing within the sport of rugby league to add value to our existing partnerships and develop new opportunities both commercially and in our community.

Working alongside colleagues across all areas at the Saints, Roby will also help strengthen the role of the Club and the BrewDog Stadium as a civic hub for the region, bringing together local businesses, partners and supporters to encourage collaboration and build stronger connections within our community.

Roby will also be available to support the Club’s performance squads and coaching staff, sharing his insight and experience as one of the most respected figures in rugby league. His deep-rooted understanding of the Club’s values, history and culture will continue to be of significant benefit to all involved at St.Helens R.F.C.

This appointment reinforces the Club’s commitment to strengthening its ties with the town of St.Helens and the wider region.

Roby’s leadership, reputation and longstanding connection with the Club will be invaluable as St.Helens R.F.C. continues to build meaningful relationships with local businesses, partners and our wider community.

James Roby said: “I’m really pleased to be returning in a new role. St.Helens has been such a huge part of my life, and I’ve always taken great pride in representing Saints. That hasn’t changed. The Club means a lot to me, as do the people involved and the wider community.

“There’s a great opportunity to build on the things that make this club what it is. Ultimately, my job is to strengthen relationships and hopefully create new opportunities for the Club moving forward. It’s a really exciting prospect.”

Having spent the majority of his adult life at St.Helens, Roby understands the importance of the people behind the scenes and is looking forward to gaining a greater understanding of the Club’s day-to-day operations.

“The variety is something that genuinely appeals to me. St.Helens, like any organisation, has lots of different areas and operations, and I’m looking forward to continuing to learn more about them.

“I’ve spent the majority of my adult life at this club, so I know the people and understand the things that have helped make it successful. It’s not just the players on the field.”

A key part of Roby’s new role will be developing relationships with the Club’s commercial partners, building on existing connections and ensuring they feel part of Saints’ ambitions for the future.

“People who invest in the Club have that affiliation with Saints, and they, just like everyone involved at Saints, want success. We have fantastic commercial partners, and for me, this is a great opportunity to build those relationships further and make sure they feel part of what we’re trying to achieve.”

St.Helens R.F.C. CEO Abi Ekoku added: “I’m absolutely thrilled to welcome James back to Saints in this pivotal role. His on-field leadership was inspirational, and his passion for this club and community embodies what it truly means to be a Saint – relentless drive, dedication, integrity and results.

“With James collaborating across our commercial and community teams, we will look to build new partnerships, alongside deepening our highly valued existing ones.”