In an exciting development, Richard Johnson takes up the new role of Head of Academy Partnerships for Watford Football Club with immediate effect.
Joining the Academy Management Team (AMT), Johnson’s role will be – as suggested by his job title – to focus on developing partnerships right across the gamut of relationships the academy holds both within the game and in general business outside the football industry.
Former Hornets’ midfield legend ‘Johnno’ has already served the club as a senior Business Development Manager for the past three years, and, in that role, built up a strong contacts book which will be put to good use for the academy’s benefit.
“Richard’s experience both in his football career and post-career in the club’s commercial team gives a perfect platform to create a unique and exciting role,” explained the Hornets’ Commercial Director Paul O’Brien.
“Richard’s dedication, hard-working ethos and intelligence ally perfectly to his incredible love for the club. I strongly believe he will be a great success in this new role and will offer an innovative and exciting new arm to the academy’s great work.”
Johnson’s remit will include the creation of commercial opportunities to help sustain the academy, increasing and strengthening international links and working with the AMT on player development pathways including a mentoring programme which will include utilising former Watford players – including Hornets Ambassadors, of course – to offer guidance to today’s current aspiring young talent.
Barry Quin, Head of Academy - Coach & Player Development, said of the appointment: “I’ve known Richard or ‘Johnno’ for some time now and see this move as a welcome addition to the academy. He is an excellent character, has a great history with the club, and we can’t wait to get started.”
“I see this addition to our academy staff as being a really positive step,” added Academy Manager Richard Thomas.
“Johnno’s fantastic history with the club will be of genuine benefit in numerous ways. To have someone join the team that we already know, that has a really positive outlook and already has strong relationships in place, suggests that we can maximise our enormous potential – exactly what the academy is designed to do.”
