The FA has appointed Andy Walker as the new senior communications manager for the England men’s team.
Walker joins The FA’s communications division from Birmingham City where he held the post of head of media and communications.
During his time at Birmingham, Walker has overseen media demands around the club's 2011 Carling Cup triumph, the Barclays Premier League, the Sky Bet Championship, the UEFA Europa League and two successive UEFA Women's Champions League campaigns.
He is a specialist in social media and has received various accolades for his work in this field.
In his new role, Walker will help shape communications around the England senior men’s team and contribute to a proactive, multi-media PR strategy in the build up to the UEFA 2016 European Championships.
He will also oversee an integrated communications approach to all the England men’s development teams from U21s downwards, assisted by PR officer James Marshall.
Walker said: "I am delighted to be starting the next chapter of my career with The FA and I relish the opportunity to further enhance England's public relations ahead of what will be an exciting build up to UEFA Euro 2016 and beyond.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Birmingham City and the experience I have gained. It has recently been a testing period for the football club and I’d like to thank all my colleagues at Birmingham for their continued hard work and support they have shown me over the years.”
Walker will report into FA head of media relations Mark Whittle, who said: “Andy was the outstanding candidate for this role following a highly competitive and comprehensive application process. We are delighted to be welcoming someone with such varied experience and forward-thinking ideas to our team.”
Club England managing director and FA group communications director Adrian Bevington added: “I’d like to congratulate Andy on his appointment. It’s an exciting and important role within The FA Group and I am sure he will be a great asset to the organisation.”
Walker replaces Stuart Mawhinney who departed for Sky Sports PR team this summer following the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. His start date is Monday 24 November 2014.
