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Some clubs are looking within for their next leaders, while others are bringing in experience from outside. This week’s edition features internal promotions, returns, new appointments and departures across European football.
Lennert Lodewijks returns to Lommel SK
Lennert Lodewijks has returned to Lommel SK as Commercial Director. He previously spent five years with the club before leaving in summer 2024. Lodewijks returns from Voka Limburg, where he most recently served as Manager of Business Relations & Partnerships.
Hayley Scott joins Raith Rovers
Hayley Scott has been appointed General Manager of Raith Rovers, having started in the role in July 2026. She will work across the club’s staff, volunteers, foundation, community and partners. Scott also serves as Director of Vigour Capital Consulting and holds part-time Fractional CFO roles at Fanbase and Harley Street Mental Health.
Paul Stringer takes on permanent role at West Ham United
Paul Stringer has been appointed Chief Marketing and Media Officer at West Ham United on a permanent basis after serving as Media and Communications Consultant since May 2026. He will oversee communications, content, digital, marketing and supporter services. Stringer previously spent almost ten years at the Premier League and held several communications roles at West Ham earlier in his career.
Alessandro Antonucci departs Inter
Alessandro Antonucci has left Inter after nine years with the club, most recently serving as Head of Revenue Strategy. Since joining as Business Developer for Inter Academy in 2017, he has held roles across marketing performance, partnerships and commercial strategy. Antonucci previously worked at Nielsen Sports and Repucom, while his next move has not yet been announced.
Sumit Arora joins Newcastle United
Sumit Arora has joined Newcastle United as Chief Strategy Officer. He moves from Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, where he spent 11 years and most recently served as Vice President of Strategy & Analytics. Before joining MLSE, Arora held several strategy, operational improvement and business management roles at CIBC.
Rob de Groot promoted at RKC Waalwijk
Rob de Groot has been appointed Managing Director of RKC Waalwijk after more than four years as the club’s Commercial Director. Before joining RKC in March 2022, he worked in executive recruitment at Page Executive. De Groot previously spent almost nine years at Feyenoord in sponsorship and partnership management roles.
Gavin Bailey promoted at Stockport County
Gavin Bailey has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Stockport County after serving as Chief Operating Officer since January 2025, succeeding Simon Wilson. He will oversee the club’s day-to-day operations and organisational growth. Before joining Stockport, Bailey held senior leadership roles at CitySuites, bringing experience in property and hospitality operations.
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