Northampton Saints’ Director, Tim Percival, is today announced as the British & Irish Lions’ Head of Communications for the Tour to South Africa in 2021.
The 12-month secondment, which sees Saints’ Communications & Marketing Director gradually transition to the Lions before beginning full-time in January 2021 until September, comes as the Lions ramp up their preparations ahead of their eagerly anticipated Tour to face the World Champions next summer.
Percival will bring extensive media and communications expertise to the Lions’ leadership team. Before joining Saints in 2017, he worked as the England Team’s Communications Manager under Eddie Jones, as well as holding the position of Head of Corporate Communications at Wasps when the current ownership moved the Club to the Ricoh Arena.
“It is no surprise that Tim has been selected for the upcoming Lions tour to South Africa,” said Mark Darbon, Saints Chief Executive.
“Since arriving at Franklin’s Gardens three years ago, Tim has led a talented team which have transformed the Club’s communications output. Saints are now consistently one of the most-engaging clubs in UK sport, who deliver a first-class media access programme.
“We are delighted for Tim personally and we hope he is the first of many Lions tourists selected from Saints.”
Mark Darbon, Northampton Saints Chief Executive
Communications Manager, Jack Miller, will now lead the Club’s communications department, heading up Saints’ media relations programme, as well as continuing his responsibility for the Saints’ website and editorial channels.
Meanwhile, Laura Tringham has been promoted to the role of Head of Marketing & Ticketing, overseeing all of Saints’ marketing activity, data infrastructure, and the ticketing function.
In his role as Content Manager, Tom Kwah continues to oversee the Club’s content team, where he has led Saints to be named the most-engaging rugby club on social media and fifth most-engaging overall UK sports team. Responsible for delivering all creative and digital activity, including Saints’ social platforms, he will now also take charge of the Club’s matchday presentation and entertainment.
