Aldershot Town FC has announced the appointment of Laura Smith as the club’s new Chief Executive.

After four and a half years in a similar role with the Suffolk FA, Smith arrives at the EBB Stadium to lead and support the club’s staff in driving the club forward.

“I want to build upon the positive work that is already going on around the football club, and ensure the club is at the heart of our local community,” said Smith, who also played as a midfielder for both AFC Wimbledon Ladies and Millwall Lionesses.

“We need to ensure that we are giving Gary Waddock and the first-team as much support as we can off the pitch to enable them to do the best they possibly can on the pitch.

“I feel really fortunate to be given this opportunity at such an exciting time for the club, both in terms of the first-team’s performances last season and also with the relaunch of our Community Foundation next month.

“I hope I can help give Gary the best tools off the pitch so the team can do just as well, if not better, during the coming season.”

Chairman Shahid Azeem said: “As the club continues to evolve and grow, with our new Community Foundation and restructured Academy, it is vitally important that Laura is on board to streamline the club and bring all aspects of the business under one roof.

“Clearly the first-team is our priority but there is so much to co-ordinate on a day-to-day basis.”

Laura takes over from Bob Lampert who will stay with the club until the end of July to ensure a smooth handover.

“We now look forward to working with Laura in taking the club to the next level,” said Shahid.