Football: James Mason appointed Rochdale AFC CEO

James Mason, Rochdale AFC Chief Executive Officer

James Mason has been appointed the new chief executive officer of Rochdale AFC.

Mr Mason joins the club after being in a similar role at Bradford City for the last four years. During that period the Bradford enjoyed significant growth in terms of season ticket numbers, commercial turnover and external profile.

A former BBC journalist, Mr Mason is also a partner in a sports and business consultancy. 

Mr Mason will work closely with director William Goodwin, who has played a crucial role in steering the club forward during the summer months. 

He said: “I have long been an admirer of Rochdale Football Club from my visits here as an opposing director and visiting fan. They have a great reputation within the industry for being well run on and off the field and have a team of really talented and committed people working here already.

"My immediate role will be to offer my experience, advice and leadership in the areas where it is needed. 

“The board care passionately about the club. Keith Hill is a manager that I greatly admire. The youth set up speaks for itself, as highlighted by the emergence of players like Luke Matheson. I’m also fully aware of the loyal and proud fan base. I’m sure I’ll get to know everybody in due course and adding value where I can.

“I have a long association with Rochdale with close family in Littleborough. My cousins support the club and my uncle was a very active sportsman within the area as I was growing up. Last year I donated some season tickets myself to acknowledge the lower prices, something I am a big believer in.

“Since leaving Bradford in the summer I have spent a lot of time watching and researching how other sports operate. I have a number of senior contacts in cricket and rugby as well as football. To observe and share some good practices with them over the last few weeks has been invaluable. I’m really looking forward to getting started.”

Chris Dunphy, Rochdale chairman, said: “I am delighted to welcome James on board. He is forward-thinking, driven and is highly regarded. His successes at Bradford City speak for themselves, so it is an exciting acquisition for the club.

“We have made great strides off the pitch in recent years and I believe James’ appointment is an important step on our journey. He will bring a new professionalism to Rochdale AFC and I have no doubt he will move the club forward.

“The board of directors and I look forward to working with him.”