Chelsea Make Strategic Backroom Addition as Boehly’s Vision Progresses
The reshaping of Chelsea’s internal structure continues under the leadership of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, as the club hires a former high-ranking government communications figure.
Following significant changes within the executive team this year—such as CEO Chris Jurasek’s departure and Jason Gannon assuming the role—Chelsea have welcomed several key figures, including Todd Kline from Tottenham Hotspur as president of business (replacing Tom Glick) and Casper Stylsvig as chief revenue officer from AC Milan late in 2023.
This latest move involves the appointment of Nerissa Chesterfield as Chelsea’s director of corporate communications and affairs. Chesterfield previously served as director of communications under former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and was a special advisor during Sunak’s tenure as Chancellor of the Exchequer under Boris Johnson’s administration.
Before joining Chelsea, Chesterfield’s appointment was reviewed by the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (ACBA), a government body that oversees employment transitions for former Crown staff. The ACBA approved her move with conditions, barring her from lobbying the government or related entities for the next two years. In its seven-page report, the committee identified “limited risks” associated with her role at the football club given her previous government position.
At Stamford Bridge, Chesterfield will oversee strategic communications, manage media relations, handle crisis management, and help shape Chelsea’s messaging in partnership with the board and club ownership. This hiring reflects the club’s broader effort to transform not only the playing squad but also its culture and leadership behind the scenes.
