Oxford City Football Club has formed a new advisory board of directors – to support its strategic growth.

City’s majority shareholder Justin Merritt has appointed eight people to a strategic advisory board, with two of the directors investing into club.

The move is designed to help the club create a stronger platform to become sustainable and drive its ambitions on and off the pitch.

Andrew Luers, Chris Redhage, Bruce Galliford, Professor Alexander Betts, Greig Box Turnbull, Ori Gal, Jamie Murray and Chris Gaydon have joined. 

Majority shareholder Justin Merritt described the board as having “a wealth of experience across business, education and tech, that will be invaluable for the club.”

Tech investors Andrew Luers and Chris Redhage, who founded start-ups including healthcare tech company Provider Trust and sports tech platform FairWhistle have invested in the club. Mr Redhage is also co-founder of Major League soccer club Nashville SC and remains a shareholder.

Mr Merritt said: “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. 

“The investment is welcomed and we are working on securing additional investors to further develop the club. 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 was the founder of EV infrastructure charging company RAW Charging, the club’s current front of shirt and stadium sponsor.

Alexander Betts is Professor of Forced Migration and International Affairs, and Senior Fellow in Politics at Brasenose College, at the University of Oxford. He serves as the University's Local and Global Engagement Officer, and Chair of the University's Sport Strategy Committee.

Greig Box Turnbull is the founder of Oxford based PR and Marketing agency Fortitude Communications and former Oxford United managing director, Oxford City Stars shareholder and Mirror journalist.

Ori Gal has more than 30 years’ experience in the software and tech industry and has held senior roles in prominent companies in the UK and United States, he has an MBA from University of Oxford. 

Jamie Murray co-founded Oxford based legal firm Lawbox, a consultancy specialising in business law. He is a qualified Chartered Surveyor of Project Management and coaches Oxford City’s U10’s.

Chris Gaydon is Investment Director at Octopus Energy Generation and more than 20 years’ experience in fund management and investing in wind, solar and battery projects. As an Oxford local, Chris is passionate about supporting the club in its ambition to build strong links with the local community.