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This week’s update features a range of new appointments and leadership changes in the football industry. From CEO nominations to marketing roles and presidential announcements, these moves reflect the ongoing dynamism behind the scenes of the game.
Jan B. Thelen joins Bayer 04 Leverkusen
Jan B. Thelen has started as Head of Marketing and B2C Sales at Bayer 04 Leverkusen in January 2025. He joins the club with nearly two decades of experience in sports marketing and sales, having previously worked at vivenu as Vice President Sports EMEA and at Nielsen Sports in various senior roles, including Managing Director DACH & Eastern Europe. Earlier in his career, he held sponsorship and sales positions at SV Werder Bremen, Lagardère Sports, and Sportfive.
Ted Glick joins Chicago Fire FC
Ted Glick has been appointed Chief Ticketing Officer and Senior Vice President of Stadium Programming and Events at Chicago Fire FC, effective April 1. In this dual role, he will oversee all ticketing operations, including sales, service, and strategy, while also leading event programming and hospitality sales tied to the Club’s future stadium development. Glick was most recently the Senior Vice President of Global Sales for Legends, where he led premium sales strategy and execution across the Iberian region, including stadium projects such as FC Barcelona’s new Spotify Camp Nou. His earlier experience includes leadership roles with the Washington Commanders, New Jersey Devils, and Philadelphia 76ers.
Rui Abreu joins FC Paços de Ferreira
Rui Abreu has taken on the role of President at FC Paços de Ferreira, starting in March 2025. He returns to the club where he previously worked for over seven years as Marketing and Communication Manager. Most recently, he served as Marketing Manager at Rio Ave FC. His earlier professional background also includes roles in marketing and procurement.
Menno Geelen becomes CEO at Ajax
Menno Geelen will officially become CEO of Ajax on July 1, 2025, following a year in the role on an interim basis. His contract will be extended until June 30, 2027, pending reappointment by the Supervisory Board after the upcoming General Meeting of Shareholders. Geelen has been with the club since 2010 and served as Commercial Director since 2016.
Tan Kesler joins Pogoń Szczecin
Tan Kesler has taken over as Vice President and CEO at Pogoń Szczecin, following a recent takeover of the club. The move comes five months after his departure from Hull City, where he served as Vice-Chairman following the club’s acquisition by Acun Ilicali in January 2022.
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