Ashley Hackett officially joins Manchester United

Manchester United have made a key appointment, with the club’s charitable arm set for a new era under fresh leadership.

The Manchester United Foundation has confirmed, via their website, that Ashley Hackett will take over as CEO from June, bringing with him a wealth of experience in community development and football-led initiatives.

Hackett arrives from Blackpool FC Community Trust, where he spent over 15 years and oversaw remarkable growth during his tenure.

Under his leadership, the Trust expanded significantly, increasing turnover from £225,000 to £3.2 million, securing more than £25 million in charitable funding, and delivering impactful programmes in one of the UK’s most deprived areas.

His work has earned widespread recognition across the game, including a role with the English Football League on its Community Board, where he became the first football charity lead to serve in that position.

Ashley Hackett now steps into a role that plays a crucial part in United’s identity beyond the pitch, with the Foundation continuing its mission to support young people across Greater Manchester and beyond.

Speaking after his appointment, Hackett made clear what the opportunity means to him personally.

“As a lifelong Manchester United fan and season ticket holder, it brings my family and I great pride to become the new CEO of Manchester United Foundation – an organisation I have always admired.

“I would like to thank the Board of Trustees for giving me this opportunity.

“I look forward to embarking on this exciting journey with the amazing team in place, to build on the incredible legacy that has been led by John, and continue to develop a charity of which Manchester United fans and communities can be proud.

“I would also like to thank the staff, Board and fans at Blackpool FC and Blackpool FC Community Trust for a life-defining fifteen years.

“The scheme and impact we have built in the most deprived town in the country fills me with great pride and I look forward to seeing what the team develops in the future.”

The appointment comes as the Foundation looks to expand its reach and impact, building on existing initiatives while introducing new ones under Hackett’s leadership.

Events like United’s stadium Sleep Out, which has already raised awareness and funds for vulnerable young people, are expected to play an even bigger role moving forward, with plans to make such initiatives more regular.

While attention often remains fixed on performances at Old Trafford, this move highlights the club’s continued commitment to making a difference off the pitch, and with Hackett at the helm, there is a clear intention to take that work to another level.

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