Leeds United have a new sporting director in post-Angus Kinnear reshuffle

Adam Underwood has been named as Leeds United’s first sporting director since Victor Orta in a reshuffle of key leadership positions following the departure of Angus Kinnear.

Chief executive Kinnear is leaving for Everton after eight years at the club, and is not being replaced directly, with a number of leadership figures given added responsibilities.

Underwood is the most high-profile from a footballing perspective.

Two summers ago Underwood was promoted from academy manager to head of football operations. His new title adds oversight of the recruitment department to his duties, which included being in charge of transfers, football operations, performance and medical management, and the academy.

Recruitment was previously in the hands of Robbie Evans, who joined as chief strategy officer in 2023, and is the new managing director – Kinnear’s title when he first joined from West Ham United.

Evans played a key role in developing the San Francisco 49ers new home in 2014, and has also worked as chief strategy officer at a publicly-traded company.

Chief operating officer Morrie Eisenberg has been promoted to chief business officer and finance director Fay Greer has been promoted to chief financial officer.

These appointments are a recognition of the depth of our leadership team, our significant sporting and business achievements over the past two seasons, and our commitment to building a high-performing club led by individuals who represent Leeds United inside and out,” said chairman Paraag Marathe. “I am confident they will help drive the club forward in this next chapter.”

Former Premier League and Football Association chairman Peter McCormick was named as executive vice-chairman on the day news of Kinnear’s impending departure was confirmed.

Leeds will be playing Premier League football for the first time since 49ers Enterprises took a controlling stake in the club two years ago, and their promotion will see them push ahead with plans to develop Elland Road as a 53,000-seater stadium.