Just three months after departing the City Ground, Forest’s former Chief Operating Officer is back in the game.
Coventry City has appointed John Taylor, a former Nottingham Forest official, as chief operational officer, a newly created position at the club with a Premier League brief.
The developments come less than 24 hours after Sky Blues chief executive Dave Boddy announced his departure in January, almost precisely seven years after joining the club in League Two. Taylor, who departed Forest in September after six years at the City Ground, will join Coventry on January 1, 2024.
Taylor joined the Reds in 2017, first as Head of Finance, then as Finance Director, and lastly as Chief Operating Officer, managing the East Midlands club’s return to the Premier League via the Championship play-offs in May 2022.
“His first-hand experience in the key role at another successful football club will ensure a seamless handover from Dave Boddy, who is leaving his role as Chief Executive at the Sky Blues, and provide valuable insight and knowledge for Coventry City on the journey to the Premier League,” Coventry City said in a statement today. In his new capacity, John will report to Executive Chairman Doug King.”
Taylor announced his departure from Nottingham Forest in September, saying on LinkedIn, “After 6.5 years, I have decided it is time for me to leave Nottingham Forest.” It has been an honor to be able to work with my childhood club. It’s been an amazing frenzy, and I’ll never forget it.
“With that in mind, I am open to new opportunities, either temporary or permanent.” I am a senior executive and trained accountant with extensive experience in financial, operational, and commercial domains. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any possibilities in sports or non-sporting roles.”
Three months later, he’s joined the Sky Blues, writing on Twitter, “I am delighted to be joining Coventry City FC as Chief Operating Officer in January 2024.” I can’t wait to start!”
Taylor’s departure came after the club’s board of directors was restructured, with Tom Cartledge taking over as chairman. He took over for Nicholas Randall KC, who has been promoted to non-executive director on the board.
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