Chief operational officer Steve Davison began working at Sunderland during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Steve Davison, Sunderland’s chief operating officer, believes he is “pleased to leave the club in a much better position than when I joined” following his resignation.
Davison will leave the Black Cats at the end of the 2023/24 season, after three years in the position. He began working for Sunderland during the Covid-19 epidemic, when the team was wallowing in League One after two consecutive relegations had resulted in significant resource cuts.
There has also been a dearth of infrastructure investment for a long time, and he has now overseen a transformative three years at the Stadium of Light, implementing a number of successful initiatives.
This includes gaining the women’s team’s promotion to the FA Women’s Championship, which has served as a springboard for success this season. Engagement with the main city institutions is also stated to have improved dramatically, resulting in several new and successful partnerships.
This close working partnership has also helped revitalize the city’s entertainment program and secure significant events such as the Lionesses’ homecoming match in 2023 and the opening game of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2025.
Davison has spearheaded the club’s ongoing upgrading of its infrastructure, including the adoption of a cashless stadium and, more recently, digital ticketing, as well as the bid to get 5G funding, which will be critical to improving the fan experience in the future.
Throughout his tenure, he has also overseen the design of multi-million-pound investment schemes, the most recent of which has concentrated on stadium bowl enhancements such as field repair, floodlighting, a PA system, and the installation of rails to allow safe standing.
Davison informed the club website: “I joined the club to carry out a long-term plan to return SAFC to the Premier League from League One.” I’m glad to leave the club in a much stronger situation than when I first came. I’d like to thank the club staff for their assistance and wish them continued success, and I’m looking forward to watching SAFC as a fan again beginning next season.”
Chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus said, “On behalf of our board of directors and staff, I’d like to thank Steve for his commitment and effort over the last three years.
“Integrity and professionalism have been at the forefront of his leadership, and while we have all encountered obstacles along the way, his contribution ensures that he leaves the club equipped to move forward. Steve and his family will always be welcome at the Stadium of Light, and we wish him the best in the next phase of his career.
Leave a Reply