MARK Godfrey has been appointed chief executive officer of the Harden-based global turf research company STRI.

He joined the firm in 2006 as group finance director and more recently was managing director of its Australasia operations.

"I am honoured to have been selected as CEO," said Mr Godfrey.

"We are an organisation guided by our mission to deliver sustainable, elite sports surfaces across the world through our design and consultancy services and by spearheading the development of cutting-edge research trials for the advancement of the international sports industry."

STRI group director, Lee Penrose, welcomed the appointment.

"Mark has been instrumental to STRI’s evolution over recent years," he said.

"We are convinced that together with members of the management board and staff, he will be able to accelerate our growth ambitions globally while continuing to deliver outstanding results for existing clients."

STRI this year announced a strategic partnership with the Aspire Zone Foundation in Qatar to establish a centre of excellence for natural sports turf research and development.