East Kilbride-based Goals Soccer Centres has appointed casinos and pubs executive Mark Jones as its new chief executive officer following a turbulent year in which its share price has lost more than half of its value.

Jones, 55, will join on July 1 from the Rank Group, where he was managing director of Grosvenor Casinos and sat on the company’s executive committee.

Before Rank, Jones held senior roles in the leisure industry including managing director of Mecca Bingo, chairman and CEO of Premium Bars and Restaurants, CEO of Yates Group, and various roles at Whitbread.

Nick Basing, Goals Soccer Centres chairman, said: “I am delighted Mark is joining to lead the company through its next phase of development. 

“Mark has an exceptional and experienced track record of managing leisure brands and growing businesses. 

“Mark’s appointment further strengthens the calibre of the board, following the other appointments announced recently.”

Jones said: “I am delighted to be joining Goals.

“Whilst the Company has experienced its recent issues, it remains an excellent business with significant potential both here in the UK and in the US.

“I look forward to working with the Goals team and driving the business forward.”