Key Newcastle United appointment confirmed as director thanked in social media post

Newcastle United have strengthened their commercial department - thanks to Chief Commercial Officer Peter Silverstone.

Georgie Simmons, who previously worked at both World Rugby and England Rugby, has been appointed as Head of Partner Marketing.

“Good things come to those who wait,” Simmons posted on LinkedIn. “I am excited to share I have started this week in the newly created Head of Partnership Marketing and Activation role at Newcastle United Football Club!

“Thank you to Peter Silverstone for the opportunity and I am excited to join a super-talented team that has been turbo charged to the next level!”

Simmons has spent nearly 15 years in the commercial field. In her bio, she wrote: “As Head of Global Partnerships I am responsible for our partnerships across all Rugby World Cup and World Rugby properties coming out of our team in Ireland, France, New Zealand and UK.

“In the role I have transformed the commercial model and built an in-house talented, dynamic and engaging team to deliver extraordinary partnerships, campaigns, and operationally at events.”

Silverstone, who works closely alongside Chief Executive Officer Darren Eales, will continue to build a “diverse commercial operation that will deliver the commercial success vital to power the fans’ and the club’s ambitious growth plans.”

Although Newcastle have progressed rapidly on the field by securing Champions League football for the upcoming season, the commercial side is still playing catch following years of neglect under former owner Mike Ashley.

Further income is required with Eddie Howe’s side heavily restricted by Financial Fair Play.