I had met my aspirations and I was looking for something fresh. I spotted this job and the thing just leapt out at me.
How does working for one of the biggest football clubs in the country differ from the norm? I think it is in the dynamics, the freshness. There is always something going on. I have to be here on match days for health and safety reasons and on these days I can have up to 350 people reporting to me. There are also the 48,000 members of the public to consider. Anyone that says they would not get a buzz out of that is lying.
What happens on match days?
Everything has to be perfect. In that sense we are no different to every other business. There are no second chances, it has to be right on the day. The pitch, for example, has to be at its best for the games. Behind the scenes there is a whole army of people working away. My role is to co-ordinate and manage them.
What is the most challenging part of the job?
It is not just about management of the stadium. By July we will be able to start on the construction of the new Academy of Light training facility. This is a very big development and we expect to spend around £12-£15 million. We aim to use the academy to bring kids into the club. It could be the source of the next Kevin Phillips. We have some very exacting deadlines to meet.
What other responsibilities do you have?
We have just been named as preferred bidder for a hotel and leisure complex adjacent to the ground. We have five retail outlets and also provide some residential properties. Everything that is property and facilities related falls under my remit.
Are you a Sunderland AFC fan?
Only by default, not in the strictest sense of the word. I'm more of a rugby man myself. I think if I was 'Fred the fan' I wouldn't be suitable for the job, it would be quite the contrary. I would be standing around in awe of the place all day.
Are your friends and former colleagues jealous?
They often ask, "how the hell did you get that job?" It proves that you can break the mould and do something different. If you push yourself you can do it. Thankfully I don't think any of my friends are Newcastle fans!
Source
The Facilities Business
