A different challenge for new Colchester United chief executive Steve Bradshaw (From Gazette)

A different challenge for new Colchester United chief executive Steve Bradshaw

10:07am Tuesday 2nd December 2008 in

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STEVE Bradshaw will encounter a different kind of challenge as Colchester United’s new chief executive, according to club chairman Robbie Cowling.

Bradshaw, who has worked for more than a decade as Colchester United’s Community Sports Trust’s chief executive, takes over in the role for the U’s, following the departure of Marie Partner.

Bradshaw, who is vice-chairman of the Colchester 2020 partnership, helped oversee the development of the Weston Homes Community Stadium in the town.

Cowling believes the emergence of the new stadium – and the business and marketing opportunities that come with it – means the position of U’s chief executive has evolved and now entails different responsibilities.

Meanwhile, Cowling has acknowledged Partner’s contribution to Colchester, following her decision to leave the club after more than two decades.

Cowling was the fifth and final chairman Partner worked with during her time with the U’s, working alongside her for nearly 18 months after taking over from Peter Heard in July, 2007.

He was quick to pay tribute to her efforts, highlighting her work in helping the club with their move to the Community Stadium.

“She had been at the club for a long, long time and in particular, played a big part in helping us with the transition between moving from Layer Road to the new Community Stadium, which was a big, big job.

“I don’t think she has taken any holiday for quite a while so she’ll be looking forward to a nice break.

“I think we should respect her decision that she wants to move on.”