Goals names industry veteran as new chief

GOALS PLC, the outdoor soccer court operator, has ended its search for new leadership with the appointment of Andrew Anson as chief executive.

Mr Anson, who is a leading figure in the world of sports and leisure internationally, will take the reins on April 23.

He has significant expertise in operational strategy, consumer marketing and sales, and corporate business development, as well as a strong track record in developing partnerships.

He has held senior roles at The Walt Disney Company and Channel 4, was the commercial director for Manchester United plc, and served as the chief executive for the England 2018 FIFA World Cup bid and ATP Europe.

More recently, over a fiveyear period from 2011, as CEO of Kitbag Limited, he led its recovery in profits, significantly grew revenues and oversaw its successful sale to Fanatics Inc. In 2017 he was global president of Teneo Sports.

Chairman Nick Basing said: “Andy has an ideal blend of leadership skills, a passion for football and proven expertise in modernising businesses. We are confident that Andy’s skillset will contribute to the future delivery from Goal’s investment-led recovery strategy.”

Goals has 49 sites, including three in California, and plans to further develop its North American joint venture business and international prospects.

In order to do this, its board has reshuffled some responsibilities. Mr Basing will remain a non-executive director of the plc board, but will hand over the chair, on an interim basis, to senior independent director Michael Bolingbroke, until a new non-executive chairman is appointed.

This will allow Mr Basing to devote time to his role as chairman of the company’s joint venture with City Football Group and further its international growth prospects.