We are proud to announce that our chief executive Gary Sweet has won the Championship Chief Executive of the Year award, courtesy of the Football Business Awards.
It is the third time in six years that Gary has been recognised by the Football Business Awards, having won the honour whilst in League Two and then League One.
The recognition for Gary comes as the 2020 consortium celebrates 15 years of custodianship at Luton Town, and the 20th anniversary of the Luton Town Supporters’ Trust, which he helped establish to eventually save the Club in 2003 and 2008.
The Football Business Awards’ judging panel is made up of Chief Executives of Football Clubs, Professional Football Associations & Grassroots Football Organisations – all individuals whose knowledge, expertise and experience gives them special insight into the challenges and demands of football business success.
An online voting request was sent out to database of football executives, asking them to vote directly for who they think should be the divisional winner within their league. Judges were also asked to nominate their choices from across the divisions.
A winner for each division was announced yesterday in advance of the event and presented with their trophy at the ceremony, with an overall winner announced at the ceremony itself – this year to be held at The Brewery in London on Friday 26th May, the day before our Play-Off Final appearance at Wembley Stadium.
Other nominees include Paul Barber at Brighton receiving the honour in the Premier League, Neil Hart (Bolton) for League One, Sarah Barry (Harrogate) for League Two and Steven Ferguson (Ross County) for the Scottish Leagues.
Speaking about Gary, the judges commented: “He has overseen the recovery of his club from the Football Conference to the top of the Championship without risking its long-term future by overspending. Under his guidance the club has become an example for others and recognised by the authorities for its attitude towards the promotion of gambling and payments of living wage amongst other initiatives.
“To be competing at the top end of the Championship with limited budgets and small gates illustrates the fantastic job he has done. A great season with limited resources.”
Congratulations Gary from the whole team at Kenilworth Road!