Joe Comper takes on new role at Priestfield.
It is with great enthusiasm that Chairman Brad Galinson announces the appointment of Joe Comper as Gillingham Football Club’s new Managing Director. In addition to his responsibility for the Club’s non-football operations, Joe will now also oversee football operations, working closely with Kenny Jackett, who continues as Director of Football.
Brad has the highest expectations for the Club as it heads into the business end of the season. “I know Joe can, and will, have a positive impact on running the business of football and helping solidify its strategy and process—just like he has done off the pitch. He’s a collaborator and a team player. I am looking forward to Joe bringing together the football and non-football sides of the Club. This is one company. Joe understands my vision and I know he can help us realise that by bringing all departments under a single umbrella with a single culture.”
Joe’s tenure as Director of Operations has ushered in a tremendous year of growth at GFC. Season ticket sales were the highest in the Club’s history, the Commercial team tripled sponsorship and advertising revenue, and the Club has made strides in the area of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. Additionally, GFC has improved the fan experience with the opening of a new shop, improved digital content, and a commitment to a culture of transparency and communication with the supporters.
Joe says: “I am excited for the opportunity to have a positive impact on the football side of the business. It is time to bring the football and non-football areas of the Club together with a common sense of transparency and personality. I have worked with Brad and Shannon for some time now. I know what they want and how to communicate with them. Over the last few months I have built a great relationship with Stephen and Robbie and I look forward to seeing what we can do. Additionally, we are in the midst of an investment into larger and more complex data analytics tools and personnel for recruiting which will need to be incorporated under this newly consolidated organisation.”
Since the takeover in December 2022, American owners Brad and Shannon Galinson have worked to restructure the organization to bring the Club to the next level of performance and productivity. Comper will continue to play a pivotal role, working closely with Kelly Derham, Director of Finance, and Kenny Jackett, Director of Football.