Leeds United have restructured their recruitment team following the departure of head of recruitment Jordan Miles, just as the January transfer window looms.
Miles, who joined from Aberdeen in February, leaves after overseeing one transfer window during a challenging summer period for the club. In response, Leeds have promoted Alex Davies to fill the vacancy, while Adam Underwood, head of football operations, takes on a greater role in player trading, marking a strategic shift in the club’s recruitment approach.
Leadership Changes and Continuity
Jordan Miles’ brief tenure saw Leeds navigating a busy summer window, forced into last-minute changes after the exits of several star players, including Archie Gray, Crysencio Summerville, and Georginio Rutter. Now, long-time club figure Alex Davies steps in as head of recruitment, a move aimed at preserving continuity within the department. The club’s recruitment advisor, Nick Hammond, brought in two years ago, will remain in his role but with a reduced level of day-to-day involvement.
In a broader operational shift, technical director Gretar Steinsson has departed Leeds to join the 49ers Enterprises, Leeds’ majority stakeholders, in their global football initiative. Steinsson’s new role will focus on advanced research in industry trends and player development, which may benefit Leeds and future clubs under the 49ers’ ownership. His departure signals Leeds’ openness to a multi-club model, reflecting a growing trend among global football investors.
Strategic Moves and Red Bull’s Growing Influence
In a landmark partnership earlier this year, Red Bull became a minority investor and primary shirt sponsor for Leeds, further aligning the club with industry-leading organisations. This investment hints at potential future collaborations and possibly expanding the Leeds United brand through Red Bull’s vast sports network. The internal promotion of Davies and Underwood’s expanded role seems designed to support the club’s strategy for sustained growth and talent acquisition in line with the ambitions of the club’s stakeholders.
Writer’s View
Leeds United’s recruitment reshuffle underlines a proactive strategy to build a sustainable, adaptable squad for the future. Promoting Alex Davies and expanding Adam Underwood’s role emphasise the club’s commitment to continuity and internal development, while Gretar Steinsson’s move to the 49ers hints at a potential multi-club model. Leeds’ new structure, coupled with Red Bull’s investment, could allow them to explore new talent pipelines, strengthen their brand, and improve their competitiveness in the Championship and beyond.
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