Former member of the British Parliament becomes Chelsea's corporate communications director

In an unexpected development this week, Chelsea has welcomed a former British Member of Parliament and director to assist the former Prime Minister, reflecting the club's commitment to leveraging diverse expertise. 

The new ownership at English Club Chelsea is implementing changes throughout the organization, signalling a proactive approach to management. Beyond the movement of players, there has been a notable reorganization of staff, with several new roles introduced at the board level.

A new hire has been announced, featuring a former Member of Parliament.

As confirmed on the Government website today, Nissy Chesterfield, who previously served as Rishi Sunak’s director of communications, will be joining Chelsea as the director of corporate communications and affairs. This move certainly comes as a surprise and is quite unexpected.

Announcement on the Government Website

‘Ms Chesterfield sought advice from the Advisory Committee on Business'

'Appointments (the Committee) under the government’s Business Appointments Rules for former Crown Servants (the Rules) on taking up a role with Chelsea FC Holdings Limited (Chelsea FC) as Director of Corporate Communications and Affairs.'

'The purpose of the Rules is to protect the integrity of the government. The Committee has considered the risks associated with the actions and decisions made during Ms Chesterfield’s time in office, alongside the information and influence she may offer Chelsea FC. The material information taken into consideration by the Committee is set out in the annex.'

'The Committee’s advice is not an endorsement of the appointment – it imposes a number of conditions to mitigate the potential risks to the government associated with the appointment under the Rules.'

'The Rules set out that Crown servants must abide by the Committee’s advice1. It is an applicant’s personal responsibility to manage the propriety of any appointment. Former Crown servants are expected to uphold the highest standards of propriety and act in accordance with the 7 Principles of Public Life.’