SUFFOLK FA has appointed its first female chief executive.

Laura Smith will take up her post on Monday, December 3.

She is joining Suffolk FA from E Teach UK where she was a PE and Sports Consultant.

Welcoming her to the county David Porter, Suffolk FA chairman, said: “I hope you will join with me in wishing her every success in taking this county forward.”

Speaking about her new role, Laura, who has played for AFC Wimbledon Ladies and Millwall Lionesses, said: “First and foremost I love football and am so excited to make a difference to the sport in Suffolk.

“I can’t wait to meet the team at the County FA, our dedicated Council members and our partners within the clubs and leagues.

“I am confident I will have a positive impact on football in Suffolk and would be delighted to hear from anyone who has any feedback on the service we provide as I settle in to the new CEO role over the coming months.”

Since leaving university in 1999, Laura has enjoyed a successful career and joins Suffolk FA having developed sport in local authorities, education and the private sector.