Boardroom Upheaval at Wigan Athletic
Wigan Athletic has confirmed the departure of managing director Sarah Guilfoyle 'by mutual consent' - with Anthony Cole-Johnson stepping into the hotseat. The change comes as the club looks to strengthen its connection with the town and improve its commercial revenue.
Sarah Guilfoyle, who had been with the club for 10 years, did not appear at a fans' meeting at the Brick Community Stadium on Thursday evening to discuss ways of improving the matchday atmosphere. Staff had reportedly been told she was 'away for a few days,' but her 10-year stint at the club has ended in abrupt fashion.
Why it Matters for Wigan Athletic
The club is currently 47 points behind leaders Lincoln in the title race, with a goal difference of -9. Wigan Athletic has also been working to strengthen its connection with the town, with a number of initiatives aimed at improving and strengthening the club's relationship with its community.
Anthony Cole-Johnson, who joins the club as chief executive officer, subject to all regulatory approvals, has a strong commercial background, having worked at senior leadership roles at Southampton, Sky, Ospreys and BAFTA. He will lead the club's growth and keep it competitive and sustainable for the long-term.
Wigan Athletic is currently 16th in League One, with 56 points from 46 games, and has a number of challenges ahead. However, the club is confident that with the appointment of Anthony Cole-Johnson, it will be able to build commercial revenue and grow sustainably.
The Under-18s were crowned Professional Development League North champions, the women's team won their league and reached two cup finals, and the Under-21s were Central League Cup champions. The club is also reviewing its wage structure and wants to put speculation about its stadium to rest. The stadium sits in a protected, separate legal structure that safeguards its long-term future.
League One's finances have grown tougher across the board. Growth off the pitch has slowed in recent years, but this moment presents opportunity for Wigan Athletic to build commercial revenue and grow the club organically and sustainably.
Goals and League Standing
Wigan Athletic has scored 49 goals and conceded 58 this season, with a goal difference of -9. The club is currently 16th in League One, with 56 points from 46 games, and has a number of challenges ahead.
The club is confident that with the appointment of Anthony Cole-Johnson, it will be able to build commercial revenue and grow sustainably. The Under-18s were crowned Professional Development League North champions, the women's team won their league and reached two cup finals, and the Under-21s were Central League Cup champions.
Image Prompt
A photorealistic image of a Wigan Athletic staff member, aged 35-40, with a strong build, wearing a navy blue jersey with white sleeves and a white collar, and a pair of black trousers. The image should be taken with an 85mm f/1.4 lens, with a shallow depth of field, and a floodlight rim light. The staff member should be standing in front of a blurred background, with their face complete and visible, and their eyes sharp and focused.
