You might have doubts about Mark Noble’s credentials to walk from the pitch into the position of West Ham United’s sporting director. That’s understandable.
The speed of the move is unusual — he has almost gone straight from life as a player into a world of tackling tough negotiations and strategic decisions. It is an unusual role, but it encompasses many of his responsibilities during his 18-year professional career, including the seven years as West Ham captain.
Noble, After 550 senior appearances in his boyhood club, he retired in MayRecent completion of a Harvard Business School Entertainment, Media and Sports Business Leadership course. The 35-year-old officially starts his new role in January and will be tasked with player recruitment, academy development and providing support for staff and players from both men’s and women’s sides from a well-being perspective.
Noble has some experience in recruiting. In March, he played a key role in Elliott Ward’s appointment as under-14s coach. Noble was a great fit for the ex-West Ham defender, who wanted to broaden his coaching experience. Ward held that position for four months before he was approached to become Colchester United Under-18s’ lead coach.
Noble also played a role in Zavon Hines’ appointment as under-13s coach in 2019. He also recommended Jack Collison, now head coach for Atlanta United’s reserve team, for the under-16s role in 2017.
His experience isn’t limited to the academy. It is worth remembering before David Moyes’ reappointment in December 2019 that the board consulted Noble about the decision.
