Leeds United have appointed Paul Bell as the club’s Executive Director, the club has confirmed on its official website.
Bell previously held the post of Director of Commercial Affairs at Elland Road, a role which he performed for four and a half years.
He returns to the club from Yorkshire rivals Sheffield Wednesday, where he was Chief Operating Officer.
Speaking upon his return, he said:
“I am immensely honoured to return to Leeds United and I am relishing the opportunity to work alongside Massimo Cellino in leading the business side of the club and the senior management team.”
“I also look forward to supporting Steve Evans, his first-team staff, players and everybody at Thorp Arch during what I feel is a particularly exciting time for the club.”
“I spent four-and-a-half fantastic years here prior to joining Sheffield Wednesday, so I am well aware of the potential of this huge club and the expectation level of the supporters.”
“During my previous time here, I helped the club reach its strongest commercial footing for nine years – an achievement which I am incredibly proud of and something I am aiming to build on this time around.”
Leeds chairman Massimo Cellino added:
“I am pleased to be able to welcome Paul Bell back to the club as our new Executive Director.”
“Paul already has the knowledge of Leeds United and the experience needed to help continue to take us forward off the field.”
“Sheffield Wednesday were very disappointed to lose Paul and it is not difficult to see why. I look forward to working closely with him at Elland Road.”
Bell returns to Leeds at a positive time for the club, as they appear to have settled under new boss Steve Evans, who is targeting a play-off place.
They were on an eight match unbeaten run before defeat at Ipswich last night but the club are now 12 points off the play-offs.
