Everton Football Club has announced that American billionaire Christopher Sarofim has joined the club’s ownership group, as they look to bring in more investors to support the team’s growth.
According to a report, Sarofim, chairman of the global investment manager Fayez Sarofim & Co, will take on the role of Board Observer at Everton after becoming part of Roundhouse Capital Holdings Limited, an entity within The Friedkin Group (TFG) [1]. The Friedkin Group, who purchased Everton from Farhad Moshiri via Roundhouse, will continue to run the club.
Sarofim, a former Goldman Sachs analyst, brings nearly four decades of experience in investment and fund management to the role. The club hopes that his expertise and connections will help secure further minority investors. Everton are reportedly conscious of American owners at other clubs, such as Tom Brady at Birmingham and Will Ferrell at Leeds, who have secured high-profile minority investments.
In a statement, Sarofim expressed his delight at joining the ownership group, saying: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to join the ownership group of Everton – an historic sporting institution with a very exciting future. I have known and admired the Friedkin family for many years and I look forward to working with [executive chairman] Marc Watts, The Friedkin Group and everyone at Everton to help the club fulfil its huge potential on and off the pitch” [1].
TFG chairman and CEO, Dan Friedkin, also welcomed Sarofim to the team, adding: “Christopher Sarofim is someone I have known and respected for many years. He brings experience, sound judgment and wisdom that will be valuable as we continue to drive the club forward in all areas” [1].
Sarofim’s arrival marks the latest significant change at Everton, as the club prepares to leave Goodison Park for their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. The Friedkin Group has also appointed David Moyes as manager and Angus Kinnear as CEO, while director of football Kevin Thelwell will depart in the summer.
The addition of Sarofim to the ownership group is seen as a strategic move by Everton to strengthen their financial backing and secure further investment. As reported by The Independent, Sarofim’s involvement could pave the way for other high-profile investors to join the club [1].
The club’s efforts to attract new investors and strengthen their financial position come as they prepare for a significant period of growth and development. With a new stadium on the horizon and a renewed focus on the pitch, Everton are looking to establish themselves as a major force in English football.
As the club continues to evolve and grow, the involvement of experienced investors like Sarofim will be crucial in helping to drive success both on and off the pitch.
References:
[1] https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/everton-owners-billionaire-christopher-sarofim-b2737960.html
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