Image: British Athletics

UK Athletics has confirmed that Paula Dunn will assume the role of Team Leader across three major athletics championships in 2022.

Dunn, who has now moved into a part time role in the Para world class programme as she transitions out of the Head Coach role, will use her vast championship experience to support the Olympic programme activity in what is set to be a busy year at major championships.

Working alongside Olympic Head Coach Christian Malcolm, her first Team Leader duty will be to lead GB & NI into the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Belgrade 18-20 March.

Then from May onwards she will become full time supporting the team to prepare for and compete at the World Athletics Championships in Oregon 15-24 July and the European Athletics Championships in Munich 15-21 August.

UKA Head of Performance Tommy Yule said: “I’m delighted that the Olympic programme will benefit from the huge amount of experience Paula has in such a busy year.

“Paula’s track record of leading Teams to championships ensuring every aspect of the support areas and roles work cohesively is second to none. As her work within the Paralympic programme concludes this year, it is great that we can use her experience to navigate the busy schedule and ensure each championship campaign is the best it can be.

“She will lead the team strongly, supported by Christian and the coaching team, to give our athletes the best possible team structure to support them.

““Paula will be key in establishing good team-work between staff, ensuring clarity of roles and that everyone understands and is clear of expectation, behaviours and rules, giving Christian Malcolm as head coach the time to focus on working closely with athletes and their coaches continuously through into the championship environment.”

Paula Dunn said: “I’m excited to be supporting the Olympic Programme athletes through what I have no doubt will be a thrilling 2022. I’m looking forward to working with Christian and the rest of the team staff to ensure every championship campaign is the best it can be to give the GB & NI team world class support.”