Sports Think Tank director Andy Reed has been appointed by the Sport and Play Construction Association (SAPCA) to oversee its public affairs activities.

Reed – the former MP for Loughborough – will be charged with raising the profile of SAPCA and its objectives to “key industry stakeholders and influencers”, using his knowledge and contacts within sport and national governing bodies.

The trade association has 200+ members in the sport facilities development and construction sector, and Reed said he wanted to “make a real contribution to SAPCA in achieving its goals and ambitions”.

“It is particularly important [to raise SAPCA’s profile] as the new government sport strategy will change the landscape and there is a renewed recognition of the role of sports business,” he added.

As part of the government’s Sporting Future strategy, Reed is leading a review of the County Sports Partnerships (CSP) system.

Reed was also chair of the Sport and Recreation Alliance from 2010 to 2016, and sits on the board of Special Olympics GB, British Basketball League Foundation and Sports Chaplaincy.

SAPCA chief executive Chris Trickey added: “Andy brings such a wealth of experience to his role within SAPCA as well as a very extensive network and list of contacts.”