Wrexham A.F.C. have appointed Steve Nickson as the club's first sporting director. The 52-year-old will start his role early this month, taking charge of player recruitment, squad planning, and the Academy.
He spent the last 15 years as head of recruitment at Newcastle United. Before that, he worked for 12 years at Blackburn Rovers as head of youth recruitment. His appointment marks a major structural addition for a Championship club riding a wave of momentum after three consecutive promotions.
Steve Nickson's remit is broad and central to Wrexham's continued development. He will oversee all football operations, including player recruitment, squad planning, football administration, sports medical, performance, and the Academy. He will report directly to CEO Michael Williamson and the board, while working closely with manager Phil Parkinson on day-to-day football matters. This new role is designed to provide strategic support and structure as the club competes in the second tier.
"I am very excited to be joining Wrexham A.F.C. As sporting director," Nickson said. He added, "This is a club with incredible momentum, a unique culture and a clear ambition." The club's Hollywood-backed ownership, with co-chairmen Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, has consistently invested in infrastructure to match its on-field ambitions.
Nickson joins a leadership team led by CEO Michael Williamson and manager Phil Parkinson. His position sits between the board's strategic direction and the manager's tactical execution, creating a dedicated football executive layer. This model is common among established Championship clubs and signals Wrexham's intent to professionalise every department. Nickson's extensive network and experience in identifying talent across England will be vital for sustaining the club's progress.
The move comes as Wrexham A.F.C. Builds on a remarkable period of success. The club achieved a seventh-place finish in its first season back in the Championship following those three straight promotions. Adding a sporting director is a logical next step in evolving the club's football operations to compete at this higher level consistently. It allows manager Phil Parkinson to concentrate on coaching and match preparation, while Nickson handles the longer-term strategic and recruitment planning.
Nickson's first task will be to assess the squad and support planning for future transfer windows. His arrival coincides with a busy period in the fixture list, with the next match a home game against Burnley on September 8th.
Wrexham A.F.C. Host Burnley at the Racecourse Ground on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
