From Running Man United Women to Becoming a CEO in the EFL | Polly Bancroft, Grimsby Town (Ep119)

Today, we are delighted to welcome one of the very few female CEO’s in the English Football League. Polly Bancroft spearheads the Grimsby Town revolution that has seen the club thrive across the board, currently vying for a place in the League Two play-off final. We recorded this a few days before the disappointing 2-1 first-leg loss of Grimsby’s play-off semi final with Salford, but it’s still all to play for going into Friday’s decider.Whether successful or not in the mission to get promoted, this conversation should leave you in little doubt that this is a football club with plenty to look forward to. It reminded me of two things: first that we have the most incredible footballing system in the world, and secondly that clubs really are the bedrock of communities. The second point may seem obvious, but listen to this. Listen to how influential Grimsby is to the local area and everyone in it. Polly’s job is of course to deliver success on the pitch, but it is also to support over 100,000 people in the local community, and she articulates the balance perfectly.From that incredible night against Manchester United earlier this season to ensuring the club is run as a sustainable business, this is for both Grimsby and sports fans to enjoy. We’re delighted to welcome Polly to the Business of Sport.A huge thank you to our amazing partners on the show: AirwallexThe intelligent financial platform for global businesses https://www.airwallex.com/uk/GeminiWe empower the most confident sports organisations on Earth https://geminisports.ai/NavanSave BIG with Navan’s Business Travel Management https://navan.com/uk/sign-up/homeIf you’re interested in partnering with the show, please reach out to us [email protected]