Leeds United senior figure quits as two new hires made - sources

James holds a degree in Sports Journalism and Communications (MA) from the Real Madrid Graduate School. He has experience working for a number of local news outlets as well as the Sunday Mirror and Real Madrid TV. James is from Scunthorpe and has an affinity with Scunthorpe United, but is also a huge West Ham supporter and an expert on all things to do with the Hammers. He started working for Breaking Media in July 2023, initially writing on the Club Sites, where he specialised in West Ham content, before moving to Football Insider – where he is now an expert in football finance, speaking regularly with Stefan Borson and Keith Wyness to generate high-quality content in all things related to finance in the Premier League, Football League, and Scottish Premiership.

Published on:

24 Jul 2024, 2:04 pm

Leeds United have confirmed the appointment of two new board members and the exit of one high-profile director, sources have told Football Insider.

As per a Companies House submission on Tuesday evening (23 July), it has been revealed Rudy Cline-Thomas has stepped down from his role as vice-chairman at Elland Road.

It has also been announced Andrew Schwartzberg and Eugene Schneur have joined the Championship club’s senior leadership team.

Cline-Thomas has left the board after only being appointed in July 2023 following 49ers Enterprises takeover of the club from Andrea Radrizzani.

The former vice-chairman invested in Leeds through his asset management company Mastry Ventures as part of the 49ers' deal.

Sources have told Football Insider Cline-Thomas will remain part of the investment group at Elland Road despite the latest boardroom reshuffle.

Leeds United new directors have strong US connections

Schwartzberg and Schneur have both been promoted to the board, where they will join chairman Paraag Marathe, CEO Angus Kinnear and Australian retail magnate Peter Lowy.

American businessman Schwartzberg, who is replacing Cline-Thomas as vice-chairman, is part of the ownership group that holds a majority stake in NBA franchise Charlotte Hornets.

Schneur, meanwhile, has a background in real estate and affordable housing in the US and joins Leeds as a new director.

The duo make up part of 49ers Enterprises as it looks to continue improving matters behind the scenes at Elland Road.

The ownership group has recently been joined in its venture by Red Bull after the soft drinks company’s purchased a minority stake in Leeds, with its logo featuring on the front of the club’s shirts next season.

Leeds also confirmed in a statement on 10 July Elland Road has been transferred back to the club after it was sold in 2004 following financial issues.

Finance expert Stefan Borson told Football Insider the 49ers and Red Bull will try and bring the club back to the top of the game, with their stadium expansion plans being key to any future success they achieve.

In other news, Everton could sign an ex-Leeds United player in a cut-price deal.

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