Ballymena United appoints Neil Coleman to senior leadership role ahead of new season

Neil Coleman (left) pictured with Ballymena United FC Chairman Chris Selwood

Ballymena United FC has announced the appointment of experienced football communications specialist Neil Coleman as the club’s new Director of Communications and Marketing ahead of the 2026/2027 season.

The appointment sees Coleman join the Sky Blues’ senior management structure with responsibility for overseeing the club’s communications strategy, media relations, digital platforms and wider brand development as Ballymena United looks to strengthen its profile on and off the pitch.

The move brings one of Northern Ireland football’s most experienced communications figures back into a formal role at The Showgrounds, with Coleman already having deep ties to the club stretching back more than two decades.

Coleman most recently spent eight years working with the NI Football League, where he served as Head of Communications and Digital Innovation. Alongside that role, he has also worked with UEFA since 2019 as a Venue Data Coordinator.

Away from football administration, he currently serves as Client Director at communications agency Clearbox, where he has led strategic communications programmes for a range of clients across Ireland.

His connection to Ballymena United dates back to 2010 when he was appointed Company Secretary. He later authored the club’s Official History in 2015 and also served on the committee of the Ballymena United Youth Academy between 2016 and 2021.

Ballymena United Chairman Chris Selwood said the club believes Coleman’s experience across football, communications and marketing makes him an ideal fit for the role.

“Neil is exactly the kind of person we have been looking for as somebody who understands football, understands communications, and understands every aspect of Ballymena United,” he said.

“His background across the NIFL, UEFA, and the wider marketing industry gives him a unique set of skills that we believe will make a real difference to how we present ourselves as a club.

“We are thrilled to welcome him to the team and look forward to the impact he will have.”

Speaking after his appointment, Coleman described the opportunity as both “exciting” and “a privilege”.

“Ballymena United holds a very special place in my life,” he said.

“Having started my professional journey as a volunteer 25 years ago, I have watched with great pride as the club has developed and grown over the years.

“To now have the opportunity to contribute and tell the club’s story is both exciting and a privilege.

“I am looking forward to working with Chris, the board, the management team, and the talented media team to take our club’s profile to the next level.”

The club also confirmed that Ronnie McDowell has stepped down from the Board of Directors this month.

In a statement, Ballymena United thanked McDowell for his years of service and contribution to the club and wished him well for the future.

Supporters and shareholders have also been reminded that the club’s next Annual General Meeting will take place on Wednesday 10 June in the Des Allen Suite at Ballymena Showgrounds.