Galway United, the first division soccer club, says it is delighted to have appointed former Barings Bank trader Nick Leeson as its new commercial manager.
Mr Leeson, who is known as "the man who sank the bank" when he ran up trading losses of £791 million (€1.158 billion) at Britain's oldest merchant bank in 1995, is due to take up the position this week. His autobiography, later filmed, was called Rogue Trader. He currently lives in Galway with his second wife, Leona, and their first child.
Mr Leeson was jailed in Singapore and was subsequently diagnosed with colo-rectal cancer. He was released in July 1999, after serving four years, and has worked with cancer support charities, as well as engaging in public speaking and journalism. Speaking about his illness to The Irish Times last year, he called for more resources for preventative medicine.
"I am a very keen football fan and am looking forward to working with Galway United," Mr Leeson said at the weekend. "We set up home in Galway over two years ago and have settled here. I have been looking for a new challenge."
The club's board confirmed Mr Leeson's appointment last Friday.
