Liverpool appoint Julian Ward as new sporting director
Former technical director returns to fill role left vacant by Richard Hughes
Liverpool have appointed Julian Ward as the club's new sporting director.
Ward most recently served as Fenway Sports Group's technical director.
He replaces Richard Hughes, who stepped down from the role at the start of this month.
Ward first joined Liverpool in 2012 to support the club's scouting, recruitment and player development strategy.
He has therefore spent more than a decade working within the club's football operation.
FSG president Mike Gordon told the club's website:
"The knowledge and expertise Julian brings will only enhance our football operations, while also ensuring (head coach) Andoni (Iraola) is provided with the support he requires as he continues to make such a positive impression as head coach.
"Julian's appointment also represents the continuation of a long-standing relationship which has always served Liverpool well, and we very much look forward to the next stage in its development."
Ward said:
"I am incredibly excited to take on this role and it goes without saying that I am hugely grateful for the trust that has been placed in me by ownership.
"Having been part of Liverpool's football operation for more than a decade, I have a full appreciation and first-hand knowledge of the challenge that comes with the position, as well as a clear understanding of the demands and ambitions of this great club.
"This is an exciting period for Liverpool – on and off the pitch – in which change and opportunity go hand in hand, but at the same time the culture, values and principles that have underpinned the club for so long remain as strong as ever.
"As a football club, we will continue to create an environment that maximises performance while promoting the continued development of our players and our people.
"In Andoni, together with the wider team of staff across the AXA Training Centre, the Academy and AXA Melwood, we have the expertise, talent and conditions required to keep driving the club forward.
"Building on these strong foundations and the work overseen by our football operations in recent seasons is both a huge responsibility and a privilege."