Experienced sports executive joins MLS team in one-of-a-kind role ahead of Club’s debut in 2022
CHARLOTTE, NC (Tuesday, October 5, 2021) – Charlotte FC today announced that Shawn McIntosh has been named Chief Fan Officer and will begin his role immediately.
As CLTFC’s Chief Fan Officer, McIntosh will be responsible for fostering and maintaining a direct relationship with fans to ensure they are engaged and supported. He brings to the Club in the Carolinas a diverse sales and service background that includes stops within MLS, NBA, WNBA and AHL. McIntosh will report directly to Club President, Nick Kelly.
“As our Club prepares for the historic inaugural season, it is important that we continue to innovate and grow the fan base in Charlotte and the Carolinas,” said Charlotte FC President Nick Kelly. “Shawn’s passion, leadership and collaborative skills will be vital as we continue working with our Supporters’ Groups and the community to promote a world-class fan experience.”
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Prior to joining Charlotte FC, McIntosh served as Chief Revenue Officer for the Norfolk Admirals, a professional ice hockey team based in Norfolk, Virginia. He has over a decade of experience in sales and service at the Houston Dynamo and with professional basketball teams the Las Vegas Aces, Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury.
“I am thrilled to join Charlotte FC and for the unique opportunity to help grow soccer in the Carolinas,” said McIntosh, who was raised in Italy. “Soccer is a big part of my identity and family’s culture, I understand firsthand how this game can positively impact and transform a community. I took this role because I have an undying passion for this sport and a true desire to see our beautiful game grow in the Carolinas and in this country. That growth happens when fans have a voice. I can’t wait to immediately start meeting fans and listen to their ideas about how we can create an innovative and unique experience that exceeds their expectations in 2022 and beyond.”
McIntosh’s addition to the Club is part of its leadership’s strategic approach to provide year-round engagement. Charlotte FC is committed to assembling a competitive and entertaining product on the field, led by Spanish Head Coach Miguel Ángel Ramírez. Earlier this year, the Club also announced renovations at Bank of America Stadium, which will transform Charlotte FC’s home into an elite venue for Major League Soccer. The approximately $50 million project includes significant enhancements to the Lowe’s East Gate, an upgraded main concourse and supporters’ bar just inside the gate, soccer-specific locker rooms, a central player tunnel, and a new premium club space and field-level seating.
In June 2021 and with the support of Ally, the Club announced the search for this position as part of the commitment to be an ally for soccer fans. The international search delivered over 200 diverse candidates with finalists interviewed by internal and external stakeholders, including fans representing existing Supporters Groups. In addition to a passion for soccer, the Club focused on candidates with a proven track record in the sports industry as well as experience in driving awareness, fan affinity and cultural impact.
Shawn and his wife, Michele have recently moved to Charlotte with their son Leone (10 months) and English bulldog, Barkley.
