MARTIN GLENN "has been appointed" the new CEO of the FA and will replace outgoing General Secretary ALEX HORNE in May, according to James Riach of the London GUARDIAN. Glenn, "who has extensive experience in marketing, will leave his current role as chief executive of United Biscuits -- home to the brands McVitie’s and Jacobs -- and take up his new post at Wembley" on May 18. The FA described Glenn as “a veteran of industry” and Chair GREG DYKE called him a “natural leader.” The 54-year-old was a non-exec director at Leicester City between '02-06 "and has previously worked as the chief executive of Birds Eye and marketing manager for Walkers." A Wolves supporter, Glenn first enlisted GARY LINEKER "as the face of Walkers’ marketing campaign in the 1990s." Glenn, previously dubbed the “Codfather” of frozen foods, "has also worked for Cadbury Schweppes, Mars and Deloitte" (GUARDIAN, 3/6). In London, James Masters wrote Lineker gave his endorsement of Glenn via Twitter, adding that he was a “genuine football fan, terrific leader and a great bloke.” Dyke said that he was “delighted” with Glenn’s appointment. Dyke: “Glenn brings with him a wealth of experience as a CEO to what is an extremely important role in English football, and he will play a key part in helping us shape and deliver our new strategic priorities for the years ahead" (LONDON TIMES, 3/7). MARKETING MAGAZINE's Sara Spary wrote Glenn said the opportunity to join the FA was "just too good to pass up." Glenn: "This has been a difficult decision, as I have had a hugely enjoyable -- if challenging -- time at UB. I am very sad to be leaving the business." Glenn "will stay on as advisor to the board of directors" (MARKETING MAGAZINE, 3/6).
