Sporting Director, Ross Wilson has departed Nottingham Forest to take up the same position at Newcastle United.
Confirmation of Wilson’s move came just six days after Newcastle beat Forest 2-0 at St James’ Park in the Premier League, with both teams having endured slow starts to the new season.
During his two-year spell at Forest, he oversaw the club’s turnaround from relegation battlers to Europa League qualification, but Wilson is now “absolutely delighted” to embark on a new chapter at Newcastle.
“This is such a special club, and I fully understand the passion, ambition and expectations of our incredible supporters, as well as the ambition and desire of our ownership to keep developing and building an even stronger Newcastle United.
“My conversations with ownership have been extremely positive, and I’ve also been in regular contact with Eddie Howe and David Hopkinson.
“The trust, cohesion and alignment we’re building already feels strong, and we believe that being united as a team will be so important as we continue to move the club forward together.
“I’m excited to work with everyone across the different areas within our football department.”
Wilson also paid tribute to his predecessors for their combined work in laying the foundations for success and bringing the women’s team in-house, and has vowed to build on their progress.
There’s already excellent work being done here and, from the first team to the women’s team and academy, my aim is to build on that, strengthen our structures over time, and work with our staff to create environments where players and staff can continue to thrive.”
Newcastle CEO, David Hopkinson added that he is “delighted” to sign Wilson whose “experience and expertise immediately strengthen us, and his appointment is another important step forward in our journey.
“Ross has a track record of delivering strategic change. He has instilled processes and built relationships that have helped his clubs to win and grow, and he has demonstrated his ability to enhance talent pathways and integrate women’s football into the same high-performing culture.
“We are looking forward to working with him as we build towards our ambitions for long-term sustainable success.”
Forest issued their own statement confirming that the details of his exit “will remain confidential” but thanked him for his work at the club.
“Newcastle United have triggered the release of Ross Wilson from Nottingham Forest. The terms of such release will remain confidential between the clubs.
“Nottingham Forest thanks Ross for his professionalism and commitment throughout his very successful time at the Club and wishes him well for the future.”
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