The club is pleased to announce Neil Sears as its Club Secretary and General Manager.
The search for a General Manager began last year and paused whilst board elections were held. It was picked up again this year with input and guidance from a number of people, including a former EFL CEO.
The ideal candidate was already within our ranks. Neil has fulfilled the role of Club Secretary on a part-time basis since October and that gave us a chance for him to work with us and see how we got on. His dedication and work ethic has impressed everyone.
Neil already had an strong CV, with experience of senior corporate roles in the retail and leisure sector. He retrained in 2020 to pursue his passion, a career in sport, obtaining a first class honours degree in Sports Business and Law from UCFB. He’s picked up recent experience working with Burnley FC, UEFA, Beswick Sports Agency and the Fan Experience Company, in addition to his secretarial role with Bury.
He will work full-time for the club, with the two stadium managers also reporting into him.
This appointment promises another step up in the professionalism and pace of change in the club, as we continue with our strategy of blending highly qualified staff with sector expertise in with our hard working volunteers.
Neil made comment to buryfc.co.uk on his appointment:
“I’m delighted to be joining the club full time. I’ve been working with the club over recent months and I’m looking forward to taking on the responsibility of the new role. It’s been an incredibly busy period with positive results on the pitch, and having to navigate the more challenging side of the role such as the FA charges we’ve been faced with.
“It’s the time of the season for us all to come together and ensure that Dave and the team have everything they need to ensure we achieve our goal of promotion.
“I will be spending the first few weeks meeting the key stakeholders, reviewing our operational plans to ensure that we meet our financial goals, and putting together the plans for next season and beyond. I also look forward to meeting and talking to fans and establishing some clear lines of communication so I can update you at every opportunity. I look forward to seeing you at the games and witnessing more of your incredible support. Let’s get behind the club and hopefully enjoy a great end to the season, Up The Shakers!”
Marcel de Matas, Chair, said:
“Neil has a wealth of professional experience and a Sports Law Degree from UCFB. During his time working as Club Secretary he has already shown himself to be a valuable member of the team ensuring that our administrative activities run smoothly.
“In his new combined role, Neil will without doubt make a significant contribution to the progression of the football club and growth of activities at Gigg Lane. I hope that all Bury fans will join me in welcoming Neil and wishing him the best of luck in his new role.”
Welcome to the club, Neil!
