This week’s update features a strong lineup of leadership appointments and role changes across European football clubs and organisations. From board-level transitions at Borussia Dortmund and Shamrock Rovers to senior marketing and communications shifts at clubs like Juventus, Panathinaikos, and Charlton Athletic, the industry continues to evolve with key talent stepping into new challenges. Here are the latest moves you should know.
Nondas Kargakis joins Panathinaikos as Head of Marketing
Nondas Kargakis has been appointed Head of Marketing at Panathinaikos F.C., returning to a club role after nearly two years working on the brand side with betting operator Novibet. He previously held sponsorship and marketing positions at OFI Crete FC and Under Armour.
Adam Tomlinson to leave Hibernian FC
After four and a half years with the club, Adam Tomlinson has announced his upcoming departure from Hibernian FC, where he currently serves as Communications Director. He joined Hibs in 2021 and has played a key role in reshaping the club’s communications and media operations. Prior to his time in Edinburgh, he spent over seven years at Huddersfield Town FC in various media and content roles.
Luke Nicholson joins Charlton Athletic as Interim Head of Marketing
Luke Nicholson has started a new role as Interim Head of Marketing at Charlton Athletic FC. He brings previous experience from West Ham United FC, the ECB, and Southampton FC, where he held senior roles across marketing, brand and digital.
Svenja Schlenker joins BVB executive board
Borussia Dortmund has announced Svenja Schlenker as its new Managing Director for Human Resources. She will continue to lead the club’s girls’ and women’s football department but step down from her position as works council chair. Schlenker has been with BVB since 2010, most recently as Head of Women’s and Girls’ Football, and previously worked in marketing and live/social media roles.
Tony Webster joins Hartlepool United as Executive Director
Tony Webster has been appointed Executive Director at Hartlepool United FC. He brings extensive leadership experience from across the sports and business world, including previous roles as CEO of Glentoran FC and Director at the digital agency ADIGI. Alongside his new role, he continues to serve as Managing Director at WayFinder, a consultancy based in Yorkshire.
Laurenz Haferbeck takes on expanded role at DFL
Laurenz Haferbeck has been promoted to Head of Strategy & Business Development at DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga. He first joined the league in 2024 as Head of Digital Business Development. His previous experience includes roles in consulting and with DAZN, where he supported the CEO DACH.
Pier Donato Vercellone becomes Chief Communications Officer at Juventus
Pier Donato Vercellone has taken on the role of Chief Communications Officer (CCO) at Juventus FC. He joins the Turin-based club after spending the past years in senior advisory and communications roles, most recently at AC Milan and Community. His previous positions include CCO at AC Milan and the City of Milan, as well as leadership roles at Sisal Group, Telecom Italia, and Nike.
Hannah Moule promoted at Wolves
Hannah Moule has stepped into a new role as CRM & Data Manager at Wolverhampton Wanderers. She joined the club in 2023 and most recently worked as CRM & Data Executive. Her responsibilities have included managing email marketing and building personalised supporter journeys.
Ilaria Munnia joins Juventus
Ilaria Munnia has started a new role as Events Projects Coordinator at Juventus. She previously worked across international sports events, including at Kings League, the International Padel Federation and Red Bull.
Dan Cohen joins Chicago Fire FC as Senior Director Communications & Brand
Dan Cohen has stepped into the role of Senior Director Communications & Brand at Chicago Fire FC, following six months leading the club’s communications as Senior Director. He brings senior experience from PepsiCo and Beam Suntory and also consults across the food and beverage industry.
Robbie Hedderman to become CEO of Shamrock Rovers
After nearly 11 years across two spells with Aberdeen FC, Robbie Hedderman will depart his role as Commercial Director in January 2026 to become CEO of Shamrock Rovers. A former player and later senior figure at AFC Community Trust, Hedderman rejoined the club in 2021 and took on the Commercial Director post in 2023.
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