Barnsley Football Club can confirm that CEO Khaled El-Ahmad will leave his post on December 15.
Khaled has overseen the Club’s football and business operation since joining the Reds in September 2021 and will shortly be joining MLS outfit Minnesota United FC.
Following Khaled’s departure, a restructuring of the Club’s hierarchy will take place which will see a CEO and a Sporting Director appointed in due course.
In the interim, the Club’s Chief Revenue Officer, Jon Flatman will step up to become acting CEO and Academy Director, Bobby Hassell will oversee football operations as acting Director of Football.
Jon has been involved in the business side with Barnsley for the past 11 months, having previously worked extensively in professional sport and most recently at the Rugby World Cup. Jon brings a commitment to improving the fan experience and partnerships across the public, private and voluntary sector.
Hassell is familiar to Oakwell, making 300 appearances for the Reds from 2004 to 2014, captaining the club during this period. Since 2015, the 43-year-old has been actively shaping the club's future, contributing to recruitment and youth development as Academy Director. He earned a master's degree in Sporting Directorship in 2021, showing both his passion and commitment to the Club's continued success.
Chairman Neerav Parekh said, “We would like to thank Khaled for his efforts at our Club and we wish him well for the future. Both Jon and Bobby have the experience and passion needed to run the club on a day-to-day basis whilst we ensure we have a solid team off the pitch to drive us forward.”
Owners and board members, Neerav and Julie-Anne Quay will discuss this matter further at this evening's (Monday) Fan Forum with Jon and Bobby also attending.
