Overview of the Investigation
The British government is under scrutiny, as a comprehensive investigation has been launched concerning the selection process for the new chairman of the independent football regulator, David Kogan. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has come into focus following a missive directed to its Permanent Secretary, Susannah Storey, from the Commissioner for Public Appointments, William Shawcross, which arrived last Thursday. Shawcross is set to conduct interviews with Kogan and Secretary of State Lisa Nandy as part of the inquiry, prompted by preliminary checks that indicated certain issues may need to be addressed.
Kogan’s Background and Appointment Process
Kogan, who is 67 years old, was not originally included in the shortlist of three candidates for the position; however, he emerged as the preferred choice after Nandy’s endorsement. With more than twenty years of experience brokering TV rights for organizations such as the Premier League, English Football League (EFL), and Women’s Super League, Nandy put Kogan forward in April. On May 9, he was officially identified as the frontrunner for the role, a nomination supported by the DCMS due to his extensive background in the football and media sectors.
Role of the Commissioner for Public Appointments
In his role, Shawcross, now 79, is responsible for ensuring that public appointments are made following a set of governance guidelines which emphasize values such as integrity, merit, and fairness. Shawcross, a former broadcaster and writer who has extensively covered figures like Rupert Murdoch, will ultimately report back on whether the procedures adhered to established protocols. Although he cannot dictate outcomes, his recommendations will undoubtedly impact the government’s subsequent actions regarding the appointment.
DCMS Commitment to Inquiry
A spokesperson from the DCMS has confirmed receipt of the communication from Shawcross and expressed a commitment to collaborate fully with the inquiry as the appointment undergoes the standard ratification process.
Kogan’s Professional Journey
Kogan boasts a diverse background, having begun his professional life as a journalist before founding Reel Enterprises, a media consultancy that was integral to assisting sports leagues and organizations in optimizing the value of their broadcast deals. He sold the firm in 2011 to Wasserman, yet he continues to engage with clients such as the English Football League, the International Olympic Committee, and even commercial giants like CNN and the New York Times, focusing on their digital strategies.
Political Involvement and Regulatory Purpose
Notably, Kogan has actively supported the Labour party, contributing over £33,000 in donations to various candidates and writing two historical books regarding the party. His involvement in football governance was previously marked by his application for the chair role in 2024, part of an initiative during a Conservative government to push through the Football Governance Bill—an effort ultimately stalled by a general election call by Rishi Sunak. The establishment of an independent football regulator was first proposed following the controversial European Super League plans in November 2021 and was formally announced by the government in February 2023, aimed at safeguarding the financial integrity and sustainability of English professional football.