A new class of compounds is disclosed that in preferred embodiments relate to Ru-based catalysts suitable for use in olefin metathesis reactions. Such compounds demonstrate high rates of catalytic turnover in comparison with other Ru catalysts known in the art. Moreover, the catalysts are highly stable, and readily suited to attachment to a solid support via the anionic ligands. The invention also pertains to methods of producing the catalysts, and their use in catalyzing olefin metathesis reactions.