The reverse Sol Campbell! Tottenham appoint ex-Arsenal CEO Vinai Venkatesham as new chief executive in stunning move

Venkatesham served as Arsenal’s chief executive for four years before stepping down last summer, concluding a 14-year stint with Spurs’ arch-rivals. His switch to Tottenham is reminiscent of another infamous north London crossover - that of Sol Campbell in 2001. Then, Campbell stunned fans by leaving Spurs to join Arsenal on a free transfer.

An Oxford University graduate and qualified management accountant, Venkatesham also chairs the Wembley Stadium advisory board and previously played a significant role in delivering the London 2012 Olympic Games.

During his time in charge at Arsenal, Venkatesham oversaw an impressive rise in the club’s financial performance, with annual revenue jumping from £340m to £615m. His portfolio extended beyond finances - he led commercial operations, oversaw sporting decisions, and helped expand the women’s football division, which now regularly fills the 60,000-seat Emirates Stadium.

In an official statement, Daniel Levy praised Venkatesham’s appointment, noting the two had previously worked together within Premier League circles and the European Club Association.

"The Club has experienced significant growth in recent years, making it crucial to expand our executive management," he said. "I have known Vinai for many years, having worked together in the Premier League and the ECA. I am personally delighted that he has agreed to join our Board as we build for success."

Venkatesham echoed that sentiment and said: "I’m excited to be joining Tottenham Hotspur this summer. After taking some time to recharge and evaluate my options, I believe this is an exceptional opportunity to work with Daniel, the Board and all of the staff, to take the Club forward."

With Venkatesham joining the fold this summer, Spurs have signalled a strategic shift - one that may reduce Levy’s tight grip on operations while aiming to guide the club into a new chapter of growth and competitiveness, both on and off the pitch. On the footballing front, they will return to action against Wolves on Sunday in the Premier League.