Two new non-executive directors have been appointed to British Cycling’s board, the national governing body for cycling announced today.

Marian Lauder MBE and Alex Russell have been appointed to ensure that British Cycling continues to maximise opportunities for growth, with a particular focus on advising on public affairs, finance and risk management.

A director of Alto42 Ltd, a risk governance specialist company, and a board member for public transport watchdog, Passenger Focus, Marian Lauder is a former senior Army officer and was a chair of the sustainable transport charity Sustrans.

Lauder’s wide ranging experience of delivering effective governance at board level as well as her ability to manage large budgets will be fundamental to the board’s work in advising on financial management.

Alex Russell, an accomplished strategic communications and public affairs professional with over 12 years’ experience, is an associate director for Four Communications Group in the sport, arts and sponsorship practice and a former head of public affairs and policy at Sport England.

Russell’s detailed understanding of the intricacies of government and her strong track record in campaigning and influencing policy, will be vital in British Cycling’s work to engage with national and local government to ensure that cycling is put at the heart of transport policy.

A former head of campaigning and media at the Women’s Sport and Fitness Foundation, Russell’s insight will also be invaluable in assisting British Cycling in its ambition of getting one million more women cycling by 2020.

Announcing the news British Cycling’s president Bob Howden said: “I am delighted to announce that Marian Lauder and Alex Russell will be joining our board. Both of them are not only accomplished experts within their fields, they are also extremely passionate about cycling and its ability to transform the lives of millions of people across Britain.

“I am confident that their solid expertise will help to ensure the growth of our fantastic sport and our ability to ensure that cycling appeals to people of all ages and backgrounds.

“This is the first time that British Cycling has appointed directors to its Board. Today marks the start of a hugely exciting chapter for British Cycling and we look forward to working with Marian and Alex.”

Welcoming the developments, minister for sport and equalities, Helen Grant, said: “The appointment of two women to the board of British Cycling is great news and good governance from the sport.

“I want to see more women represented on the boards of governing bodies to help shape sport in this country and encourage more women to get involved. I am sure that Marian and Alex will make great contributions to further strengthen cycling in Britain.”

Marian Lauder MBE said: "I am delighted to be taking up this appointment with an organisation I have long admired. I am excited at the prospect of working with British Cycling and making my contribution to its continued growth and success. I hope to play my part in bringing the joys of cycling to many more people".

Alex Russell said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to join a really dynamic and innovative organisation. British Cycling has proven success at both elite and grassroots levels, and is fast becoming one of the UK’s most popular sports. I am looking forward to helping build on this by opening up opportunities to take the sport to more people.”