Upgrade to Premium Now
This week’s update features leadership changes and strategic moves at SSC Napoli, Fortuna Düsseldorf, RSC Anderlecht, Sampdoria, Charlton Athletic FC, and Salford City FC – covering Italy, Germany, Belgium, and England.
Tommaso Bianchini steps into new leadership role at SSC Napoli
Tommaso Bianchini has been promoted to General Manager – Business Area at SSC Napoli. He joined the club in 2022 and most recently served as Chief Revenue Officer, following his role as Chief International Development Officer. Prior to his time in Naples, Bianchini held senior commercial positions at ACF Fiorentina and Venezia FC, including multiple years as CRO and Marketing Manager. His experience spans revenue strategy, international development, and marketing across top-tier Italian football clubs.
Gavin Fleig appointed CEO at Salford City FC
Salford City FC has named Gavin Fleig as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 October 2025. Fleig joins from City Football Group, where he held senior leadership roles in talent strategy and football planning. With over 20 years of experience across global and domestic football operations, he is tasked with leading Salford’s strategic, operational, and commercial development.
Lara Spaan departs RSC Anderlecht
Lara Spaan has concluded her role as Sales Director at RSC Anderlecht after nearly three years with the Belgian club. During her time there, she led revenue-generating activities within the stadium — including ticketing, B2B sales, hospitality, and F&B — and played a key role in the evolution of the club’s commercial operations. Spaan now moves on to join Fost Plus, where she plans to apply her leadership and marketing expertise toward a purpose-driven mission focused on sustainability.
Alice Larkworthy joins Charlton Athletic FC
Alice Larkworthy has been appointed Commercial Director at Charlton Athletic FC, becoming part of the club’s Senior Management Team. She brings over 15 years of international experience in sports partnerships, including roles at Arsenal, England Rugby, and Football Federation Australia. At Charlton, she will lead the commercial, hospitality, and retail departments, focusing on sustainable growth and supporting the club’s progress following its return to the Championship.
Djordje Velickov promoted at Fortuna Düsseldorf
Djordje Velickov has been promoted to Project Manager Digital Development at Fortuna Düsseldorf, following nearly three years with the club. He previously worked as a student assistant and intern within the club’s digital development team. His professional background includes a focus on digital innovation and fan engagement within the football sector.
Jesper Fredberg joins Sampdoria
Jesper Fredberg has been appointed CEO of Football at Italian club UC Sampdoria. The Danish executive brings extensive international experience to the role, having previously held leadership positions at RSC Anderlecht, Panathinaikos, Omonia Nicosia, and Viborg. At Anderlecht, Fredberg led a strategic overhaul of the club’s sporting operations, placing player development and data-led decision-making at the centre of the club’s identity.
Are you looking for a new challenge or is your club/organisation searching for qualified employees?
Would you like to see your recent HR/personnel news in our weekly Careers Update?
Then let us know at: enzo@footballbusinessinside.com
