Joe Jacobson, a respected figure in the English Football League, has transitioned from a storied playing career to a pivotal role as co-CEO at Reading Football Club, spearheading a remarkable turnaround for a club that recently faced an existential threat. His unexpected journey into football club management signifies a new era for the Royals, aiming to restore stability and ambition after a period of intense financial and administrative turmoil.
Jacobson, widely known for his set-piece prowess and tenure as Wycombe Wanderers captain, alongside his punditry for Sky Sports EFL, concluded his professional playing career less than 18 months ago. Yet, behind the scenes, he harbored a keen interest in the strategic and numerical aspects of running a football institution, an inclination that would ultimately redefine his post-playing future.
His transition wasn’t accidental; during his final year at Wycombe, Jacobson proactively spent his days off immersing himself in the club’s operational offices, gaining firsthand insights into the complexities of football club management. This dedication was further cemented by undertaking a football business management course with the PFA, showcasing a clear intent to pivot into an administrative capacity.
The opportunity at Reading materialized following an approach from Rob Couhig, who envisioned Jacobson joining him in the club’s new leadership. An initial failed takeover attempt, though a setback, inadvertently provided Jacobson crucial time to further his education and expand his professional network, often attending Reading games to research and analyze potential avenues for involvement.
Now firmly established in their roles, Jacobson and Couhig maintain constant communication, strategizing for the club’s future from Couhig’s US base. One of Jacobson’s very first and most significant contributions involved the critical task of offering contracts to approximately 20 out-of-contract players, a process that provided him invaluable insight into the inner workings of the transfer window from an executive perspective.
The co-CEOs are driven by a clear vision: to rebuild the club as a beacon for its fans, the local community, and the town of Reading itself. Their strategy involves meticulously crafting commercial deals that align with the club’s core values and, crucially, fostering ambitious growth on the pitch, recognizing that stagnation is synonymous with decline in professional football.
A key aspect of their leadership involves empowering staff and making necessary investments for growth. Jacobson emphasizes the importance of providing budgets for strategic planning, understanding that financial outlay is often a prerequisite for generating increased revenue. He also profoundly acknowledges the “amazing people” whose unwavering efforts were instrumental in keeping the football club operational during its most challenging times.
Looking ahead, the explicit ambition shared by Jacobson and his colleagues is to elevate Reading FC back to sustainable Championship status. Having endured their longest stint in the third tier since the late 1990s and early 2000s, the Royals are determined to ascend as swiftly and responsibly as possible, solidifying their position within the English football hierarchy.
Jacobson concludes by reiterating the three foundational principles guiding their tenure: honesty, transparency, and sustainability. These guardian principles are meticulously integrated into every decision, ensuring a robust and ethical framework for the club’s future. His final words are always dedicated to the loyal fanbase, whose enduring support proved indispensable in preserving the club’s existence.
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