**PRESS RELEASE
Birmingham City FC Announces New Senior Football Leadership Team**
Birmingham, UK – 22nd June 2022 – Birmingham City Football Club is proud to unveil its newly structured
Senior Football Department, a major step in delivering the Club’s long-term “Vision 2030” strategy and strengthening football operations across the Men’s, Women’s, and Academy pathways.
Following months of planning under the Club’s new ownership, this restructuring represents a clear commitment to elite performance, youth development, and a unified football identity across every level of Birmingham City.
Key Appointments
Craig Gardner – Director of Football (Men’s First Team)
Former Blues midfielder and highly respected football operator
Craig Gardner has been appointed
Director of Football for the Men’s First Team. Gardner will oversee all senior recruitment, performance strategy, and long-term squad planning, working closely with the Head Coach and the Board.
“Craig embodies what this Club stands for — ambition, hard work, and a deep understanding of Birmingham City. His leadership is vital as we enter a new era.” –
Neils DeVos, Chairman
Sarah Westwood – Director of Football (Women’s First Team)
Birmingham City is delighted to welcome
Sarah Westwood, one of the most forward-thinking leaders in the women’s game, as
Director of Football for the Women’s First Team. Westwood will lead recruitment, development strategy, and professional standards within the Women’s programme.
“Sarah’s reputation for excellence, innovation, and building competitive structures makes her the perfect appointment as we invest significantly in our Women’s team.” –
Jeremy Dale, CEO
Academy Leadership
Mike Rigg – Academy Director (Men’s Pathway)
With a career spanning senior roles at the FA, Manchester City, Fulham, and Sheffield Wednesday,
Mike Rigg joins the Club as
Academy Director – Men’s Pathway. Rigg will oversee the full youth performance model, from U9s through to the Elite Development Squad.
He will lead the Club’s ambitious plan to create
the most heavily funded youth academy in the country, ensuring the next generation of Birmingham talent becomes central to the First Team.
Hope Powell – Academy Director (Women’s Pathway)
Legendary former England Women’s manager
Hope Powell joins Birmingham City as
Academy Director – Women’s Pathway. Powell will develop a best-in-class talent pipeline, overseeing coaching, education, player welfare, and competitive progression for all age groups.
“Hope Powell’s impact on English football is undeniable. Her expertise elevates our Women’s Academy to one of the most significant projects anywhere in the UK.” –
Garry Cook, Non-Executive Director
A Unified Football Identity
This restructuring is designed to ensure:
- Complete alignment from Academy to First Team
- A shared football philosophy across Men’s and Women’s programmes
- Strong pathways for youth players to progress into senior football
- Elite recruitment and development infrastructures
- A modernised, professional, and ambitious operational model
Club Statement
“Today marks another major step in building the foundations for sustainable success. Our new Senior Football Team brings together industry-leading expertise and a collective vision aligned with our long-term strategy. Birmingham City is rebuilding with purpose, professionalism, and clarity. This is the beginning of a new football identity for our Club.”
—
The Board of Birmingham City Football Club
