New chief executive appointed at Athlone Town FC
Athlone Town FC has this morning (Tuesday) announced the appointment of former League of Ireland footballer Steven Gray as the club's new chief executive.
The 43-year-old takes up the role after working with the Shamrock Rovers Academy, where he was its head of education.
His appointment is the latest development in a restructuring of operations at Athlone Town, after the arrival of US investor Nick Giannotti as the club's new chairman in recent months.
During his playing days, Gray was a defender who had a spell as a youth player with Southampton before going on to play for Drogheda United, Derry City and Bohemians. He also played for a number of years in Australia.
In comments which were issued by the club this morning, Gray stated that "connecting club and community" would be a central focus of his new role.
Athlone Town's statement said the club was excited to announce Gray's appointment as its chief executive.
"The former professional footballer and experienced football administrator takes the helm of the League of Ireland club at a pivotal moment in its growth, with a clear mandate to deliver on its long-term vision and community-focused ambitions," said the club.
"Steven Gray enjoyed a 15-year professional playing career, including time in the youth ranks at Southampton FC, and spanned over 220 appearances across Ireland and Australia.
"He spent five seasons at Drogheda United, making 123 appearances, winning every major honour in the League of Ireland – including the FAI Cup, Setanta Cup, and League of Ireland Cup – and was named Drogheda United Player of the Year in 2004.
"Following his retirement, Gray became Head of Education at Shamrock Rovers FC, where he created and developed the Club’s education programme, leaving a lasting legacy in the Academy. He helped cultivate first-team players and supported the progression of talented individuals to clubs in the UK and Europe, including QPR and Schalke 04.
"He holds a BSc in Physical Therapy and Applied Science, an MBA with Distinction, and an MSc in Elite Sports Performance from Dublin City University, as well as the UEFA Elite A Licence Diploma.
"Alongside his football work, he has founded and operated successful businesses in the health, hospitality, and construction sectors, giving him a broad base of leadership and commercial experience."
Speaking about his appointment, Gray said: "I am extremely proud and excited to represent Nick and the board in bringing to life our vision and growth plan for Athlone Town AFC. Connecting club and community is central to our plan.
"We will strive daily to build a sustainable business and football model where we aim to operate community projects, employ local people, and play a brand of football which excites our loyal fans. I cannot wait to meet everyone and build lasting connections that will drive this club forward. I look forward to seeing you all soon.”
Club chairman Nick Giannotti also welcomed the appointment, stating: "Steven brings a rare combination of top-level football experience, academic distinction, and proven leadership.
"His energy, charisma, and charm, combined with his knowledge of the game and strong Irish roots, make him the ideal figure to lead this club into its next era.
"He is the full package, educated, experienced, and engaging — the type of leader we want for the club. The board are confident that under his guidance, we will strengthen our operations, deepen our community ties, and achieve our on-field ambitions."
The club said that, under Gray’s leadership, it would focus on "building robust structures and clear lines of communication" across all football and operational departments.
"This includes the newly established Technical Board, aligning football practices and pathways across the men's, women's, and academy teams, and an Advisory Board of community leaders to strengthen local engagement, support strategic initiatives, and ensure the club remains deeply rooted in Athlone's civic life," it added.