The Premier League is set to welcome Clare Sumner as their new chief policy and corporate affairs officer. Sumner, currently the Director of Policy at the BBC, will be leaving her position there to take on this new role. The clubs were informed of this appointment earlier in the week.
The chief policy and corporate affairs officer position had been vacant since the departure of Helen MacNamara in January of this year. MacNamara, a former Deputy Cabinet Secretary in Boris Johnson’s government, left the role after less than two years. Her departure was prompted by her involvement in the infamous Downing Street lockdown parties, for which she was fined by the police in 2022.
Clare Sumner’s new role with the Premier League will involve working closely with the government, particularly during a time when a new independent regulator for football is being considered. The government recently announced its intention to establish an independent regulator for the sport, although all options are still being reviewed.
The idea of a regulator for football was recommended by Tracey Crouch as part of the fan-led review of the game in 2021. Crouch has accused the Premier League of attempting to delay the implementation of this regulator, a claim that CEO Richard Masters has refuted. Masters stated that the Premier League has been actively engaged in the process and has dedicated significant effort to address the questions and concerns raised by both the fan-led review and the government’s response.
The Premier League declined to comment on Sumner’s appointment, and the BBC was approached for further information.
This new appointment comes at a crucial time for the Premier League, as it navigates potential changes and reforms within the sport. The introduction of an independent regulator could have significant implications for how football is governed and regulated in the future. Sumner’s experience in policy and corporate affairs will undoubtedly be valuable in shaping the Premier League’s approach to these developments.
As Director of Policy at the BBC, Sumner has been responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of policies across the organization. Her expertise in this area will be instrumental in her new role with the Premier League, where she will be tasked with developing and implementing policies that align with the league’s objectives and priorities.
Additionally, Sumner’s experience in corporate affairs will be crucial in managing the league’s relationships with various stakeholders, including government bodies, clubs, and fans. Building effective partnerships and maintaining open lines of communication will be essential in navigating the complex landscape of football governance.
The appointment of Clare Sumner reflects the Premier League’s commitment to ensuring robust and effective governance within the sport. By bringing in a seasoned professional with a strong background in policy and corporate affairs, the league is demonstrating its dedication to transparency, accountability, and responsible decision-making.
Sumner’s appointment also highlights the increasing importance of policy and regulatory affairs in the world of professional sports. As the industry continues to evolve and face new challenges, having individuals with expertise in these areas is crucial for ensuring that sports organizations are able to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.
In conclusion, the Premier League’s appointment of Clare Sumner as their new chief policy and corporate affairs officer is a significant development for the league. Sumner’s experience and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to the league’s efforts in shaping the future of football governance. As the sport continues to evolve, having individuals like Sumner in key positions will be crucial for ensuring that the Premier League remains at the forefront of responsible and effective sports governance.