New board, new investment for Oxford City FC

Oxford City Football Club has formed a new advisory board to support its strategic growth, with two of the directors investing in the club.

Joining City’s board are Andrew Luers, Chris Redhage, Bruce Galliford, Professor Alexander Betts, Greig Box Turnbull, Ori Gal, Jamie Murray and Chris Gaydon.

Together, they bring ‘a wealth of experience across business, education and tech’ which majority shareholder Justin Merritt says will prove ‘invaluable for the club’.

“This is a significant step forward in the club’s continued growth story.

“The group creates a strong board of experienced, successful and well-connected people who will help us drive forward via critical thinking, advice and support.”

Tech investors Andrew Luers and Chris Redhage – the minds behind startups like health tech firm Provider Trust and sports tech platform FairWhistle – have also provided City with a vital cash injection.

This isn’t Chris’s first foray into football, as in 2013 he helped co-found and remains a shareholder of Major League Soccer club Nashville SC.

“The investment is welcomed and we’re working on securing additional investors to further develop the club”, added Justin.

“Our ambition is to enhance the key themes that make City such a special football club, our commitment to education, tech, community and player development.

“It’s an exciting era and the creation of our strategic advisory board helps ensure has a strong sounding board and we are prepared for continued growth.”

Bruce Galliford founded EV infrastructure business RAW Charging, the club’s current front of shirt and stadium sponsor.

Alexander Betts is professor of forced migration and international affairs, as well as senior fellow in politics at Oxford University’s Brasenose College, where he presides as chair of the university’s sport strategy committee.

Greig Box Turnbull is the founder of local PR and marketing agency Fortitude Communications and onetime MD of Oxford United. He’s also a shareholder of Oxford City Stars and writes for The Mirror.

Ori Gal has more than 30 years’ experience in the software and tech industry, having held senior roles at leading firms in both the UK and US, as well as an MBA from Oxford University.

Jamie Murray co-founded Oxford-based legal firm Lawbox, a consultancy specialising in business law. He’s a qualified chartered surveyor of project management and coaches Oxford City’s U10s.

And Oxford local Chris Gaydon is investment director at Octopus Energy Generation, with more than 20 years’ experience in fund management and investing in wind, solar and battery projects.