Long-serving executive Adam Santo has been named as Sydney FC's new chief executive officer, replacing Danny Townsend at the helm of the A-League club.
Santo has been with the Sky Blues for nine years in various positions including the chief financial officer and chief operating officer.
He also was the club's acting chief executive before Townsend's appointment in 2017.
Santo takes over at a crucial time in Sydney's future with the club having missed finals for the first time in six years during the 2021-22 season.
Head coach Steve Corica has been given a new deal but is expected to undergo an overhaul of an ageing squad with 12 players already having left the club last week.
Captain Alex Wilkinson and Serbian playmaker Milos Ninkovic are yet to decide their futures and Santo confirmed the preparations for next season are vitally important.
"This is a crucial period for the club managing the return to Allianz Stadium, the construction of the Centre of Excellence and rebuilding our A-League squad," Santo said.
"I am acutely aware of the expectations of the members and fans.
"The club must deliver a high-quality on-field product."
Townsend announced last December he would be transitioning into the role as CEO of the Australian Professional Leagues (APL), who run the A-League Men's and A-League Women's competitions.
During his time in charge of the Sky Blues, the club has competed in eight grand finals across both competitions.
Santo will start his new role immediately.
