James Foley has joined Alliance Leisure as the new business development manager, heading up facility development throughout the north of England, Scotland and Ireland.

His new role involves working closely with local authorities, leisure trusts and educational establishments, looking at innovative ways to improve facilities and meet the challenging and changing needs of the leisure industry.

With more than 15 years' experience in the industry, Foley has previously worked as operations manager responsible for a large trust portfolio and as interim director for the launch of a new sports stadium.

He has led directly on the project management and launch of more than £50m of major new leisure projects, including leading the business planning and marketing campaign for the £26m Salford City Stadium.

Foley said: "My new role at Alliance Leisure will help transform underperforming sites into thriving new leisure centres and bringing better quality leisure and fitness facilities to local communities. I will ensure that all developments are given the time and expertise required to make them a success."