LEEDS United have appointed Ben Mansford as the Championship club's new chief executive.

Mansford has quit newly-promoted Yorkshire neighbours Barnsley, where he worked as chief executive for three years, to oversee football operations under Leeds chairman Massimo Cellino.

"Leeds is a city I know well and throughout my career in football I've experienced the atmosphere at Elland Road and the fantastic supporters the club has," said Mansford.

"The chance to work to take this club forward was one I had to take.

"I'd like to thank (Barnsley owner) Patrick Cryne for the opportunity and support he has given me. What we achieved last season was nothing short of incredible."

Cellino added: "It's important that we continue to grow our football club on and off the pitch and I believe that Ben has the skills required to help us achieve our targets.

"Ben's arrival will now allow me to focus purely on my role as chairman and the running of the club. I look forward to working closely with him and Paul Bell at this exciting time for Leeds United."

Bell will remain as Leeds' executive director and it is understood he will focus on commercial matters.

Mansford has previously worked as a player agent with Wasserman Media Group and was appointed as Barnsley's chief executive three years ago.

The Reds followed up their Johnstone's Paint Trophy win in April by returning to Wembley last month to secure promotion to the Championship with victory against Millwall in the League One play-off final.

Barnsley said in a statement: "Barnsley Football Club can announce that chief executive Ben Mansford has left the club to join Leeds United.

"The board have appointed Linton Brown as acting chief executive and he will join the board with immediate effect.

"A former professional footballer himself, Linton has built an impressive career off the field and boasts extensive experience within the football industry.

"Significant progress has been made commercially since joining the club in 2014, with Linton being instrumental and very much the driving force behind the club's recent success."