Graham has impressed during his interim spell as caretaker boss and along with his staff have put together a positive set of results over the Christmas period.
During this time, Graham has helped navigate the club out of the relegation zone and into 19th position, collecting 10 points out of possible 15, with the side unbeaten in their last four games.
Club President, Wael Al Qadi said “From early on in his interim role, we saw something in Graham that suggested he was the right man to take this football club forward. We are really happy that Graham has committed his future to the club and we wish him every success here.”
CEO, Martyn Starnes added “We are very pleased to reach an agreement with Graham to take up the full-time role as first-team manager. This morning I have met with Graham, Chris Hargreaves and Tommy Widdrington to discuss further our plans in the current transfer window; we all share the same vision and are all entirely committed to doing what is required for the club to continue to improve.”
Graham said “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club since arriving in the summer and have felt honoured to be in interim charge of such a big football club for the past five games.
“I have made it no secret of my desire to take over on a permanent basis and I am thrilled to be the man the club have trusted to take us forward.
“In the five matches I have overseen the team, along with my experience and love of the game, I believe that I have shown I am capable of building on the great work that Darrell Clarke has done in recent years.
“I would like to extend my greatest thanks to the supporters, staff and board who have been outstanding in the time I have been in charge. I’d also like to place on note my particular thanks also to Martyn Starnes for the hard work and professionalism that he has shown throughout this process.
“Together with the supporters, we have already enjoyed some great moments and I can’t wait to create even more.
Everyone at the club would like to congratulate Graham on his new position.