A Chesterfield old boy has been formerly appointed to head the Spireites new-look marketing department, set up to spearhead all the commercial opportunities arising from the move from Saltergate to the new stadium at Whittington Moor.

Chesterfield legend Alan Stevenson is the new director of marketing, and he teams up with another safe pair of hands as Jim Brown continues with his existing role as commercial manager.

Uniquely, the two former Chesterfield goalkeepers bring together nearly 50 years of combined marketing and commercial experience since they both hung up their boots from the professional game.

In fact, Alan Stevenson actually started his professional career with the Spireites 40 years ago and is now reputed to be the country's leading expert in club relocation, having marketed the high-profile moves of several football clubs, including Huddersfield Town, Bolton Wanderers, Hull City, Coventry City, Doncaster Rovers and, most recently, Shrewsbury Town. 

He also masterminded the End of an Era celebrations for the old Wembley Stadium

Alan Stevenson, who has been acting in a consultancy basis for the last year, said: "It's now all systems go as we mark the end of an era at Saltergate and give all our supporters the chance to celebrate our move to a new football stadium."

"I am delighted to be able to come back to my football roots here in Chesterfield to help my former club with this historic move."

Chesterfield chairman Barrie Hubbard said: "Moving grounds is a once in a generation thing and we couldn't wish for a better person to head our marketing operation at this momentous time."

With building work starting at the new stadium site a range of exciting initiatives to enable supporters to celebrate the End of an Era is now being launched, as well as, commercial opportunities for the very last season at Saltergate after 139 years.

The Spireites marketing department

From left to right:  Peter Stockton, Michelle Downes, Alan Stevenson, Janice Kew, Jim Brown

Also joining the club is Peter Stockton as the new Blues on the Move development manager.  His aim is to significantly enlarge the club's popular weekly lottery draw and support the BOTM manager Janice Kew. 

Newly married Michelle Downes continues as the club shop manager, which is now selling the latest range of merchandise and leisurewear.

For more information about the End of an Era commercial opportunities pick up a leaflet from the club or download a pdf version here.