LFC appoints new commercial head

LIVERPOOL FC has announced the appointment of a new chief commercial officer and a new head of communications following the post-season clear-out by owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG).

The club has brought in Billy Hogan as chief commercial officer. He joins from the global sponsorship arm of FSG, where he was responsible for bringing in sponsorships for the Boston Red Sox and for basketballer LeBron James, among others. He also oversaw online sales for the interactive arm of the Major League Baseball website.

At Liverpool, he will report to managing director Ian Ayre, who said: “The role of chief commercial officer is a key role for the club as we continue to grow our commercial activity on a global basis and we were keen to appoint the right candidate who will be able to take the club to the next level of its development.

“Having worked at a senior level within Fenway Sports Management, Billy has been working alongside LFC for the last 18 months on a number of partnership projects and brings with him a rich pedigree of expertise and resource.”

Meanwhile, the club has also announced the appointment of Jen Chang as corporate relations and communications director.  He joins from US-based magazine Sports Illustrated, where he was senior editor of football-related content for its New York-based website. He has also previously worked for investment banking and private equity firms.

Mr Chang said: “I’m privileged to be offered the opportunity to join the communications department at LFC, a club with an unparalleled tradition and heritage.

“I’ve been impressed by the vision outlined by the Fenway Sports Group and am honoured to be part of the process as the club moves forward.”