ABERDEEN have confirmed that the vice president of Soccer Operations and Strategy with Atlanta United will join the club's board, following the resignation of Darren Eales due to his move to Newcastle United.
Dimitrios Efstathiou will replace Eales as Atlanta United’s representative on the Dons board.
With a legal background, including several years at Allen & Overy LLP in London, Efstathiou recently joined Atlanta United from Major League Soccer (MLS) where, over an 11-year tenure, he held the role of Vice President of Business & Legal Affairs.
The then lead the department that managed the player acquisition process for each of the league’s 28 clubs as Senior Vice President of Player Relations & Competition.
Among his commercial duties with MLS, he helped negotiate sponsorship agreements with blue-chip brands including AT&T, Audi and Coca-Cola.
Dave Cormack, Aberdeen chairman, said: “Atlanta United has a representative on our board as part of the strategic partnership between the two clubs and we’re pleased to welcome Dimitrios to the Dons family.
"I am confident that, as a seasoned executive with legal, commercial and football experience, he will bring a fresh perspective and insightful input.
“On behalf of the board, I’d like to thank Darren Eales for his valuable contribution over the last few years.”
In his role at Atlanta United, Efstathiou oversees the football operations team in line with the Club’s strategy. He is responsible for managing the administration of player transfers and working closely with the Vice President and Technical Director, Carlos Bocanegra.
Commenting on his appointment to the board of Aberdeen FC, Efstathiou said: “I’m grateful for the opportunity to join Aberdeen FC’s board and look forward to working with Dave and the rest of the executive group. On behalf of Atlanta United, we continue to value the strategic partnership with the Dons and will collaborate on opportunities that can be beneficial for both clubs.”
