Ashington AFC is delighted to announce the appointment of Shaun Docherty as the club’s new Head of Recruitment, further strengthening the football operations as the club continues to build for the future.

Shaun joins the club with more than 15 years of experience in recruitment, talent identification and building high-performing teams. Alongside his professional recruitment background, he brings valuable football experience through previous scouting and player recruitment roles with Newcastle United, Middlesbrough and Newcastle Benfield.

Working closely with Head of Football Ian Skinner, the management team and the club’s football committee, Shaun will lead the development of Ashington’s player recruitment strategy, helping to identify players who align with the club’s values, culture and playing philosophy while establishing a sustainable recruitment network for the future.

Speaking following his appointment, Shaun said:

“I am absolutely delighted to be joining Ashington Football Club as Head of Recruitment.

First and foremost, the opportunity to become part of a club with Ashington’s proud history, tradition and standing within North East football was a major factor in my decision. Ashington is a club with a rich heritage, a strong identity and a passionate, loyal fanbase that continues to play a vital role in supporting the team and the wider football club. It’s clear how much the club means to the local community, and I am excited to become part of that.

The opportunity to work alongside Ian Skinner and the football management team was another significant attraction. Ian has built a strong reputation within the game, and after speaking with him about his vision and ambitions for the club, it was clear there is a genuine desire to continue moving Ashington forward both on and off the pitch. The ambition, professionalism and positive culture that exists throughout the football club made this an opportunity I was eager to be involved in.

Alongside more than 15 years of experience in recruitment, talent identification and building high-performing teams, I have previously been involved in football scouting and player recruitment with Newcastle United, a brief spell at Middlesbrough and Newcastle Benfield. Those experiences provided me with valuable insight into identifying potential, assessing players and developing strong recruitment networks within the game.

I believe my background places me in a strong position to support the club’s ambitions. My focus will be on working closely with Ian, the Head of Football and the wider management team to identify players who fit the club’s culture, values and playing philosophy. I will also be focused on building and strengthening recruitment networks, developing sustainable player pathways and ensuring the club has access to the best possible talent both now and in the future.

While recruitment is naturally about identifying players, it is also about planning ahead, building relationships and creating a long-term strategy that supports continued success. My aim is to help establish a strong recruitment function that complements the excellent work already taking place within the club and contributes to Ashington’s ongoing development.

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity and look forward to meeting more people connected to the club, working with everyone involved and playing my part in helping with the next chapter in the proud history of Ashington Football Club.”

Head of Football Ian Skinner welcomed Shaun to the club, saying:

“We’re delighted to welcome Shaun to Ashington Football Club. Recruitment is one of the most important functions within any successful football club, and bringing someone of Shaun’s calibre, experience and professionalism into the role is a significant appointment for us.

Shaun’s extensive background in recruitment, combined with his football knowledge and established scouting network, will be a huge asset as we continue to build a squad capable of competing while remaining true to our values and identity.

We’re committed to creating a sustainable football structure that supports both immediate success and long-term growth. Shaun will play a key role in helping us identify the right players, strengthen our recruitment processes and ensure we’re always planning ahead.

Everyone at Ashington AFC is delighted to welcome Shaun to the club, and we look forward to working together as we continue to build an exciting future.”

Shaun’s appointment represents another important step in the club’s long-term football strategy, reinforcing Ashington AFC’s commitment to building strong foundations on and off the pitch as preparations continue for the new season.

Welcome to Ashington AFC, Shaun!