Newcastle United advertise for crucial commercial job that could end supporter frustration

Newcastle United are welcoming applications for someone to become their new head of ticketing.

Debate has raged since the Saudi-backed takeover regarding tickets, with admission into St James’ Park becoming increasingly difficult. Thousands who walked away in protest under Mike Ashley’s ownership are now struggling to find a way back inside - with demand outstripping supply.

The club also hope to attract the next generation of younger supporters as well as those from further afield. This has sparked heated discussions about the future of the stadium, with expansion difficult but relocation being met with fierce resistance.

Changes last summer to how home and away tickets get distributed have proven controversial. Memberships became unlimited, diluting the chances of winning the online ballot that was also introduced.

As for away games, a fraction of the allocation is now reserved for all season ticket holders rather than dished out via the loyalty point system. An increase in how many are held back for corporate sale is another point of frustration for supporters.

Club CEO Darren Eales announced a five per cent price hike - for the second year running - ahead of the 2024-25 campaign. Several club workshops inviting fans to vent their spleen have been hosted, with ticketing also top of the agenda for the recently formed Fan Advisory Board.

But Newcastle now look set to make an all-powerful appointment that will oversee the delicate subject. A job advertisement for a “Head of Ticketing” role at Newcastle United was posted over the weekend.

The notice called for applicants able to “deliver a world-class supporter experience”, adding that responsibilities include price-setting and distribution. This is the latest shake-up in the backroom department at Newcastle since the takeover.