Tom Burwell outlines Sunderland’s next steps, from CEO restructure to stadium and revenue strategy | OneFootball

Interim CEO Tom Burwell has outlined Sunderland’s next steps across club restructure, stadium options, revenue and fan strategy. According to Sunderland Echo, he set out recent changes and what could follow.

A key strand is integrating business and football. The next CEO will run day-to-day operations across the club, with the set-up reshaped to attract a high-calibre hire and underpin progress.

Stadium of Light expansion remains under discussion, but the picture is complex. Build costs and the modest return from adding a four or possibly just five-figure number of seats have sparked debate. The club could prioritise hospitality, with a waiting list for boxes.

Sunderland predict a revenue rank of 13th or 14th this season at about £200 million. It is unclear if that includes the imminent women’s team sale, which brings cash but no benefit under incoming SCR rules. The club backed those rules, which may hinder a top six push yet could help against lower-revenue rivals.

Despite a gambling ban from this summer, they expect an improved front-of-shirt deal after last May’s cut-price agreement, and talks continue with other sponsors. A membership programme is due soon, offering some paid benefits for season ticket holders but aimed chiefly at national and international revenue.

The aim is to establish Sunderland in the Premier League top ten, building on last summer’s ambitious window. There is caution about moving too fast or being exposed by any on-pitch dip, and Burwell stressed keeping supporters close, even as some remain frustrated by renewals.

Source: Sunderland Echo