We are delighted to announce the appointment of Ryan Hindley as the club’s new First Team Manager.
Hindley will be a familiar name to many Robins supporters, having previously spent time at the Microlise New Manor Ground and even earning a place in the club’s All-Time XI a few years ago.
He arrives at Ilkeston following an impressive spell in charge of Retford United, where he guided the Badgers to a historic promotion campaign and established himself as one of the standout managers in non league.
Appointed in 2022, Hindley made an immediate impact at Retford United, leading the club to the Central Midlands League title and promotion back to the Northern Counties East League at the first attempt. His side finished 17 points clear at the top, losing just once in the league.
Retford continued to progress under his leadership, reaching the play-off semi-finals in their first season back at Step 6 before suffering defeat to Beverley Town. Following the club’s move to the United Counties League for the 2024/25 campaign, the Badgers once again reached the play-offs, this time falling to Blackstones.
The 2025/26 season proved to be a landmark year for Hindley and Retford United. An outstanding league campaign saw them accumulate an incredible 103 points, although automatic promotion remained just out of reach.
The Badgers responded in the play-offs, defeating Staveley Miners to set up a final against Coalville Town at Cannon Park on 2 May 2026. The result confirmed Retford United’s long-awaited return to Step 5 football, with the club’s place in the Northern Counties East League Premier Division.
Hindley will be joined by James Jepson, who returns to the club having previously served as assistant manager under Jamie Ward.
The pair will take charge of the Robins for tomorrow’s Northern Premier League fixture against Redcar Athletic at the Microlise New Manor Ground.
An interview with Ryan will be released across the club’s social media channels in due course.
Everyone at Ilkeston Town would like to welcome Ryan and James and wish them every success as they begin their work with the Robins.