Former London Wasps and Queens Park Rangers chief executive David Davies has been appointed managing director of Edinburgh Rugby.
Davies takes over the running of the Murrayfield club from Craig Docherty, who will complete a transition into his new role as Scottish Rugby’s head of retail and product licensing.
Scottish Rugby director of commercial operations, communications and public affairs, Dominic McKay, said: “We’re delighted to welcome such an experienced operator as David Davies as the new managing director of Edinburgh Rugby.
“David has a huge amount of knowledge and experience gained from delivering countless world class events in and outside of the sport and has a proven track record of driving up interest and revenues in a very impressive career.
“I’m sure he will make a big impact on Edinburgh Rugby’s off-field operation.”
Meanwhile, Edinburgh Rugby also confirmed that number 8 Netani Talei will leave the club at the conclusion of his contract next month.
The 30-year-old Fijian has made 51 appearances for the club since joining from Worcester Warriors in 2010.
The 2011/12 Heineken campaign brought the best out in Talei, where he picked up three man-of-the-match awards for a trio of try-scoring outings in the pool stages of the team’s run to the semi-final.
Talei said: “I’d like to thank the club, the coaches, the players and the fans for making me feel right at home Edinburgh for a fantastic three years.
“It’s that time in the season and I’m at a point in my career when players often look for other opportunities and, while I’ll miss a lot of great friends at the club, I’m looking forward to the next change and challenge.
Interim head coach Stevie Scott said: “Netani is a popular figure with fans, who has been a great asset to Edinburgh Rugby over the years.
“I’m sure all the club’s fans will join us in wishing him all the best in the future.”