For the launch of ISPAL, interim chief executive David Teasdale has appointed a strong team, saying he is “overjoyed to have retained so many quality people”.

Seasoned organisation watchers will be able to discern indications of the way ISPAL will be driven with a strong emphasis on communications, events, education and training; a minimum of back office staff; and a spread of experience and expertise across leisure, parks and sport.

Teasdale, appointed by the board, on the recommendation of Sport England, to assist the genesis of the new institute, made no bones about his thinking: “ISPAL will be driven by the need to communicate quickly, clearly and often with our members and partners, to grow today’s markets and to support the development of professionals working in the industry.

“To achieve this, we have recruited a small but committed team of quality professionals who, to a person, are committed to member service – and to helping this industry grow faster.”

Next on the interim CE’s agenda will be confirming the name of the institute’s new chair and making sure a permanent replacement for himself is found.