David Kogan has been officially appointed as the first chairman of football’s new independent regulator, according to the Daily Mail.
The long-time media executive and Labour Party donor is set to take on one of the most influential roles in the modern game, and didn’t even have to sign up for it.
The 68-year-old once served as chief media rights adviser to the Premier League and was handpicked by the government as chairman of football’s independent regulator.
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) made the announcement, and it is believed that Kogan will take home £130,000 for working three days a week.
However, his appointment has raised several eyebrows, with many people claiming that there’s potentially political bias behind the decision.
He previously made small donations to the leadership campaigns of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and the current Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy.
It would take donations of £1,500 or more for it to be formally declared, but Kogan made sure to donate just enough to stay under the radar on both occasions.
However, records still show that Kogan and his company, David Kogan Ltd, contributed thousands of pounds to various Labour MPs in the build-up to the last general election.
The Commissioner for Public Appointments, William Shawcross, launched an investigation in June to ensure the selection process followed the Governance Code on Public Appointments.
Shawcross wrote to the DCMS requesting a full inquiry, suggesting that Kogan and Nandy should be interviewed as part of the review.
During a parliamentary hearing in May, Kogan defended his transparency, saying his donations were minor and had no influence on his appointment.
Despite the controversy, Kogan’s selection has now been formally confirmed for a five-year term.
“I am pleased to be confirmed as the first Chair of the Independent Football Regulator,” Kogan said.
“There are urgent and critical issues that need addressing in football, and I look forward to working with all stakeholders to achieve the right solutions for a more sustainable industry.”
