Hartlepool United appoint new Chief Operating Officer

Hartlepool United have appointed Stephen Hobin as the club’s new Chief Operating Officer.

Stephen has many years in both commercial football and other private and public sector roles.

Previously Stephen was the Head of Commercial for Norwich City when the club were in the Premier League and also had two stints with Preston North End before joining Cheltenham Town FC as Head of Commercial and Operations most recently.

Speaking of his appointment, Stephen said: “I am absolutely honoured to be installed as Chief Operating Officer of this fantastic football club. It is a very proud moment for myself and my family to lead the club into its next chapter back in the EFL where we belong.

“I witnessed first-hand last Saturday just what this club means to the supporters, town and the wider community. When speaking to the fans, the chairman, the staff and the football manager you quickly realise this is more than just a football club, it’s a way of life, a religion, you don’t choose to be a Poolie, you’re born one.

“I would like to thank the chairman for the opportunity to take us forward, together as one on this journey and I cannot wait to see as many supporters as possible this Saturday when we welcome Carlisle United to Victoria Park for what I am sure will be another electric atmosphere.”

Hartlepool Chairman, Raj Singh, added: “There has been a lot of work going on behind the scenes at the club over the last year in terms of getting the right off-field structure in place to really take the club forward and realise its full potential.

“Lee Rust and I have taken our time with the appointment and it’s been a lengthy recruitment process but we are now pleased to appoint Stephen into this key position that will lead all off-field commercial and operational aspects of the club.

“Stephen joins us with some excellent experience from higher up the pyramid that I’m sure he will call upon.”