Tottenham appoint ex-Arsenal CEO as Daniel Levy explains surprise move | Football | Sport
Tottenham Hotspur have appointed Vinai Venkatesham as the club’s new chief executive officer, with the former Arsenal bigwig set to take over the role in the summer. The 44-year-old left Spurs’ north London rivals at the end of last season, having spent over a decade at the club.
Venkatesham will oversee all operational matters at Tottenham on and off the pitch and is expected to work closely with chairman Daniel Levy. He becomes one of few high-level executives to hold positions at more than one top-flight team, alongside Peter Kenyon (Manchester United and Chelsea) and Omar Berrada (Manchester City and Manchester United).
Explaining the decision, Daniel Levy said: “The Club has experienced significant growth in recent years, making it crucial to expand our executive management. I have known Vinai for many years, having worked together in the Premier League and the ECA. I am personally delighted that he has agreed to join our Board as we build for success.”
On the move, Venkatesham stated: “I’m excited to be joining Tottenham Hotspur this summer. After taking some time to recharge and evaluate my options, I believe this is an exceptional opportunity to work with Daniel, the Board and all of the staff, to take the Club forward.”
The statement from Spurs read: “We are delighted to announce that Vinai Venkatesham will be joining the Club’s Board as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in the summer.
“Vinai brings expertise in both sporting and commercial operations, having previously served as the CEO at Arsenal Football Club. Prior to this Vinai was part of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and is currently a non-executive director of the British Olympic Association. He was formerly a member of the Board and Executive Committee of the European Club Association (ECA).”
It comes amid a tumultuous period for Levy, who has come under fire for his running of the club by Tottenham fans. Ahead of the Premier League side’s recent clash against Southampton, disgruntled supporters marched to the stadium in opposition of Levy, with fans carrying banners that read “time for change”.
It’s close to two decades since Tottenham last won silverware, with over £1billion having been spent by Levy and co. ever since. In that time Spurs have contested the League Cup and Champions League finals, losing both, with Ange Postecoglou the side’s fourth permanent manager in six years.
