Growing commercial revenues is key for the Dragons to achieve success and in pursuit of this strategy, Jonathan Westwood has been appointed as head of commercial.

With 30 years’ experience of working in Gwent rugby as a player and coach, Jonathan is passionate about his new role and will head up the commercial operations at Rodney Parade after 25 years working in the commercial brewery sector, most recently with Heineken UK.

He said: “I’m delighted to be joining at this hugely exciting time for rugby in the Dragons region.

"The commitment and energy of the leadership team and board is infectious and David Buttress, the Dragons chairman, has an impressive vision for sustainable success for the business and engaging the community.

“This feels like a great time to be getting involved in something that is going to be successful for all of Gwent rugby and combines my passion for both the sport I love, the area I’m from and commercial sales, so it was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.

“With my local knowledge and commercial experience, I’m looking forward to adding value to the organisation. Through the power and passion of rugby in Gwent, the Dragons can touch the lives of so many across the region and through our new brand we can really make a difference.”

Executive chairman David Buttress said: “If we are to challenge and be the best we can be, we need to be ambitious and forward-thinking. We must dramatically grow our revenues so we need a strong leadership team with experience and innovation, particularly in sales and marketing. We are delighted to have secured Jon, he will lead our commercial sales and we are confident he will play an integral role in implementing our long term strategy.”