'Pivotal moment' as Luton appoint ex-Palace CCO as new managing director
Webber to play an important part in Power Court development
Luton Town have confirmed the appointment of former Crystal Palace chief commercial officer Barry Webber to the company’s executive team as Managing Director of Power Court Stadium Ltd.
Webber has spent the last decade at Selhurst Park, and was instrumental behind a huge period of success behind the scenes for the Eagles, also credited for securing the deal that saw hugely popular Apple TV series Ted Lasso filmed at the club’s home stadium, with the venue also chosen to host World Championship Boxing as well.
Having departed south London, Webber who also previously held senior commercial roles at West Ham United and Newcastle United, before serving as CEO at Stevenage, will play a pivotal role across various functions, with a clear mandate to accelerate revenue growth, enhance the club’s business proposition, and maximise the long-term opportunity presented by the new stadium development.
Webber will be responsible for leading the day-to-day business at Power Court once the new 22,500 stadium is fully operational, while also overseeing preparations for the company's operational readiness and support the team in developing its functional design. Hatters CEO Gary Sweet told the club’s official website: “We are delighted to welcome Barry to the executive team.
"Barry has an outstanding track record of delivering growth at the highest level of the game. His expertise, industry relationships and strategic approach will be instrumental as we continue to build the club for the future. With the move to Power Court on the horizon, this is a pivotal moment for the club.
"Barry will play a central role in unlocking new revenue streams, strengthening our strategic and commercial partnerships, and ensuring we fully capitalise on the opportunities ahead. Preparing to deliver everything required at Power Court will be a significant challenge, but one that will ensure our new stadium benefits both our supporters and the wider town. I'm delighted that Barry will lead this work for us."
Webber will strengthen the Hatters’ existing executive team, joining Sweet, Tom Schofield (chief financial officer), James Mooney (operations director) and Jenn Smith (human resources director) and also working in alignment with Michael Moran (COO 2020 Developments). He added: "As I step into the role of managing director, I'm incredibly proud to be joining a club whose resilience, passion and loyalty are woven into the fabric of Luton Town and the community it serves.
"Power Court represents the next chapter in that journey - a modern, technology-enabled and content-rich destination that will remain unmistakably Luton Town, while helping to drive the regeneration of an area that means so much to our supporters. My focus will be on bringing together stadium development, digital innovation and fan engagement to create an environment where our supporters feel more connected to the club than ever before.
"I'd like to thank the Chairman, CEO and Board of Directors for their trust and support. I'm also looking forward to working closely with the Supporters' Trust and our wider fanbase as we take these next important steps together."