Sunderland appoint ex-Bolton Wanderers chief and Newcastle United fan as senior staff additions continue
Sunderland have appointed former Bolton Wanderers chief financial officer Niaz Shazad as their new finance director
Sunderland have appointed former Bolton Wanderers chief financial officer Niaz Shazad as the club’s new finance director.
Shazad confirmed his arrival on LinkedIn, thanking Sunderland chief operating officer Tom Burwell and chief business officer Mike Papadimitriou for the opportunity.
“Delighted to share I’ve joined Sunderland AFC as Finance Director,” Shazad wrote. “After Bolton, I took time away from the game. Long enough to miss it, but enough time to recharge and to come back reinvigorated. When Sunderland came, the decision made itself.
“A proud history and a passionate support, back in the Premier League, and a return to Europe with a UEFA Europa League campaign to look forward to. The ambition is genuine, both on and off the pitch, and my job is to ensure the finances keep pace with it. “Thank you to Tom Burwell and Mike Papadimitriou for the opportunity, and for the trust that comes with it. Glad to be getting started. Ha’way the Lads.”
Shazad joins Sunderland with more than a decade of experience in senior financial roles across sport. He served as Bolton’s chief financial officer between August 2024 and January 2026, having also spent a year as the club’s interim co-chief executive officer. Before moving to the Toughsheet Community Stadium, Shazad worked for City Football Group as head of finance for Manchester City and Manchester City Women’s operations.
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.
His previous experience also includes a senior role with the Rugby Football Union. Shazad describes his approach as combining strong financial governance with commercial growth, strategic partnerships and international expansion. Speaking to The Football Week earlier this year, Shazad revealed that he is a Newcastle United supporter away from his professional work. “I’m just a guy who loves sport. A Newcastle fan, a test-cricket tragic, and recently a bit obsessed with Padel,” he said.
His arrival is the latest addition to Sunderland’s off-field operation as the club adjusts to the financial and commercial demands of Premier League and Europa League football. Burwell joined Sunderland as chief operating officer earlier this year, while Papadimitriou oversees the club’s business operations. Shazad will now work alongside the pair to ensure the club’s financial structure supports its continued growth.