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MANCHESTER UNITED has appointed Cat Smith from West Ham as their new director of communications.
Smith, who previously served as the head of supporter services and fan engagement at the Hammers, will officially join the club in the upcoming year.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival has prompted significant changes at UnitedCredit: Getty
West Ham is currently in the relegation zone and has lost a key staff memberCredit: EPA
United has also recruited Robert Fawdon to lead corporate communications, along with Hibernian press officer Adam Tomlinson.
Both will begin their new positions in 2026, and a junior corporate communications hire is also anticipated.
The press office at United has experienced a significant transformation since officially becoming co-owned in February 2024.
The club appointed former Manchester City communications professional Toby Craig last year, following the departure of long-serving press officer John Allen.
Chief communications officer Craig and Smith have previously collaborated at Chelsea.
George McCaffrey was elevated to director of football communications during the summer after Andrew Ward chose to depart.
Ward, who dedicated six years to United, left the club earlier this month.
Smith has received commendations from fans for her engagement with the supporter community.
United has established a fans’ advisory board and a fans’ forum, which Smith is expected to participate in.
Minutes from the fans’ forum are made available, while supporters attending the advisory board must sign non-disclosure agreements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Cat Smith?
Cat Smith is the newly appointed director of communications for Manchester United, previously serving as the head of supporter services and fan engagement at West Ham.
What changes have been made in the Manchester United communications team?
Manchester United has made several changes, including the hiring of Robert Fawdon and Adam Tomlinson, and the appointment of Toby Craig as chief communications officer.
What is the role of the fans’ advisory board?
The fans’ advisory board is designed to represent the supporter community, and its members engage in discussions that shape the club's communication and engagement strategies.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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