FC New York have announced that internationally recognised football executive Mike Farnan has joined the advisory board, with immediate effect.
FC New York, based in Queens, New York, United States and founded in 2009, will be making its debut this year in the USL First Division, the top flight of United Soccer Leagues (USL).
Mike Farnan, a leading figure in international sports marketing, who has been pivotal in the commercial success of Manchester United and the Jordan Formula 1 team, brings a wealth of experience to the club.
As Executive Director at Sheffield United, Mike Farnan established the international commercial programmes, which have resulted in major football partnerships in China, Hungary and Australia.
Mike Farnan adds to the British contingent at FC New York, with former Manchester United Academy and Ipswich Town player Matt Weston serving as the club's Director of Football.
FC New York President Doug Petersen was delighted with the club's latest British appointment. Petersen said: "You would be hard pressed to find someone in America who has the accomplishments, experience and success in the sport that Mike has."
"I have known Mike for years. He has a first-class background in international sports marketing and his appointment demonstrates our commitment to the sport in New York, but also Mike's belief in FC New York," added Executive Vice-President Jo-Ellen Treiber.
Prior to Sheffield United, Mike was Managing Director of Manchester United International, responsible for the growth of the brand in Asia, the Middle East and Oceania where he oversaw hugely successful merchandise growth and was responsible for Manchester United opening retail stores across three continents. He had similar roles with Italian club AC Parma and leading Spanish club Athletico Madrid.
Besides football, Mike has been instrumental in securing sponsorship and licensing programmes for a number of Formula 1 teams including Jordan F1 and Williams F1.
Formerly with Sky Sports, Mike has worked on big sport sponsorship programmes alongside leading sports personalities Luis Figo, Patrick Veira, Nicolas Anelka and others.
Looking forward to the prospect of working with FC New York, Mike Farnan commented: "I am delighted to be associated with FC New York. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a country where football enjoys a continuing surge in popularity. From the start, I was impressed by FC New York's vision and I look forward to helping the club fulfil its ambitions."
