We are thrilled to announce that Paul Barber OBE, one of the most respected leaders in football, has joined FBB as our new Non-Executive Chair.

Paul’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for FBB. Paul brings a wealth of experience from his distinguished career in football, alongside a deep commitment to young people’s futures. With a distinguished career in football leadership, including over a decade as Chief Executive of Brighton & Hove Albion FC, Paul has a proven track record of driving success on and off the pitch. His commitment to using football as a force for good aligns perfectly with our mission to empower young people from disadvantaged communities.

‍A Transformative Leader

‍Paul Barber OBE has been instrumental in Brighton & Hove Albion’s rise to becoming a Premier League mainstay, overseeing their remarkable growth and success. Paul’s passion for community development and his belief in football’s potential to inspire young people make him a natural fit for FBB.

Paul’s leadership extends beyond football operations, reflecting a lifelong passion for the role football can play in young people’s development. He has been recognised for his contributions to football and community development with an OBE in 2023.

‍Words from FBB’s Chief Executive, Jack Reynolds

‍"We are absolutely delighted to welcome Paul Barber OBE as the new Chair of Football Beyond Borders," said Jack Reynolds, FBB’s Chief Executive. "He combines an exceptional track record as a Chief Executive in football, with a deep commitment to our mission. He is the perfect addition to our team as we work towards our vision of a country where every young person has a trusted adult relationship."

‍Paul Barber OBE on Joining FBB‍

‍"I have witnessed first hand the incredible work Football Beyond Borders does with young people, and I am honoured and excited to have the opportunity to work with such a talented and committed group of people. Over the past decade, Football Beyond Borders has positively impacted the lives of many thousands of young people who were lacking a trusted adult in their lives. My role is to help the charity develop to extend and accelerate this work."

‍Looking Ahead

‍Paul’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for FBB as we continue to expand our reach and impact. Working in secondary schools across London, Greater Manchester, Merseyside, and the West Midlands, FBB directly supports 3,000 young people, and many more through equipping school staff with the tools to build trusting relationships with vulnerable young people.

Our innovative programs use the power of football to re-engage students with education, equipping them with the skills and grades needed for a successful transition to adulthood. FBB’s vision is a country where every young person has a trusted adult relationship, a proven factor in transforming the lives of the most vulnerable. Last year, 95% of at-risk young people supported by FBB remained in school, and they were 10 times more likely to pass their GCSEs in English and Maths than their peers excluded from school.

‍A Shared Vision

‍At FBB, we believe in the transformative power of relationships and the role football can play in unlocking potential. Paul’s leadership and experience will be instrumental as we strive towards a brighter future for thousands more young people across the UK.

We’re honoured to welcome Paul to the FBB family and can’t wait to see what we will achieve together.