Sale Sharks has announced significant leadership changes to advance commercial operations.
- Luisa D’Aprano has been appointed as the new Commercial Director, transitioning from her consultancy role.
- Her extensive background includes high-level roles at Liverpool FC and Manchester United.
- Robbie Stott joins as Head of Commercial Operations, bringing experience from NFL UK.
- These appointments underscore the club’s commitment to strengthening its business framework.
Sale Sharks, a prominent rugby club, has made strategic appointments to boost its commercial operations. With these key leadership roles, the club aims to invigorate both its on-pitch and off-pitch activities.
Luisa D’Aprano, formerly involved with the club in a consultancy capacity, now steps into the role of Commercial Director. She brings with her a wealth of experience, having previously served as the Commercial Director at Co-op Live. Her notable career also includes roles such as Vice President of Partnership Delivery at Liverpool FC and Relationship Manager at Manchester United. In her new position, D’Aprano is set to oversee marketing, partnerships, hospitality, and overall business activities. Expressing her enthusiasm, she remarked on the club’s heritage and community ties, stating: “There is so much potential at the club both on and off the pitch and it’s a really exciting time to be joining the team.”
Additionally, Robbie Stott has been appointed Head of Commercial Operations. Stott has a rich background in event management, with experience as an Event Operations Manager at NFL UK and Stadium Event Manager at Lancashire County Cricket Club. At Sale Sharks, he will be responsible for enhancing matchday operations and elevating the fan experience at the Salford Stadium.
Sale Sharks’ CEO, Paul Smith, highlighted the significance of these appointments, expressing confidence in the new hires. He noted the calibre of both D’Aprano and Stott and their vital role in the club’s ambition to excel in rugby. Smith commented: “Luisa has worked at the very highest level of elite sport I’m confident she’s the perfect person to drive our business and our commercial team forward. Robbie brings really valuable experience in a variety of sports and he will be key to our plans to improve the fan experience on matchdays.”
These strategic appointments reflect Sale Sharks’ vision to bolster its commercial prospects and strengthen its position in the sports world.
