By BBC Sport Online's Stuart Hughes

The chief executive of the Ice Hockey Superleague, Ian Taylor, is stepping down from his post.

The ISL said Taylor, who has faced mounting criticism over the running of the league, had left "by mutual consent" in order to pursue other interests.

He will be replaced by Brian Storey, the league's former secretary, at the end of May.

Superleague chairman Martin Weddell said: "The whole board thank Ian for his valuable contribution over the last four years and wish him and his family well for the future."

During Taylor's tenure the Superleague expanded to include the Belfast Giants.

However, last season it shrank to just seven teams following the departure of Cardiff Devils and Newcastle Jesters.

Appointment

It also failed to make significant headway in attracting new sponsors or television coverage.

Brian Storey, who is 54 and from Altrincham in Cheshire, will take the title of chief administration officer.

Speaking of his appointment he said: "This is an exciting time for me personally to be asked to take on this challenging role and return to the ISL.

"I will need the help of everyone connected with the sport, and the ISL clubs in particular, to meet that and achieve our objectives.

"All hockey fans know we have one of the most exciting team sports, which is enjoyed by all the family.

"We need to see it grow further, expand and challenge some of the more traditional sports in the UK," Storey added.