About Us

Stephen Hobin is a seasoned executive in the sports industry, most notably recognised for his tenure as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Hartlepool United, a professional football club based in Hartlepool, England. His leadership and strategic acumen have significantly contributed to the club's operations and overall success.

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Hobin's journey in sports management began well before his role at Hartlepool United. He built a robust career with extensive experience in various administrative and operational roles within the sports sector. Having also played the game Stephen is an all round leader who can relate to staff, players, management and supporters.

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Throughout his career he has strategically climbed the ladder while developing as a leader and a person, often taking challenging roles requiring a dynamic approach to build and re-structure departments within professional sport. 

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He is a well respected senior figure with an excellent reputation in the commercial sector and one of few consultants  to have worked in all four professional football leagues in England, from The Premier League to League Two, at clubs such as Norwich City, Preston North End (twice) and Cheltenham Town.

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Stephen decided to drop down the leagues to reach the C-Suite gaining even more experience to become a credible leader and consultant. Having held the most senior positions in all divisions he has an ability  to understand the real life, day to day issues and challenges clubs face with regards to revenue growth, restructure, player trading and physical performance, all relevant experiences to draw upon in his consultancy journey.

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His expertise spans across strategic planning, business development, and operational management, making him a versatile leader adept at navigating the complex dynamics of sports organisations. He is also regularly asked to speak at conferences and events both within a key note environment commercially and with his inspiring motivational speaking highlighting his career highs and lows that have led him to be one of the most respected commercial sports leaders in the UK.

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In 2020, Hobin joined Hartlepool United as COO during a pivotal period for the club. His appointment was part of a broader effort to stabilise and rejuvenate the club's fortunes both on and off the field. With a clear vision and a hands-on approach, Hobin focused on enhancing the club's operational efficiency, improving fan engagement, and fostering a sustainable business model.

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Under his stewardship, Hartlepool United saw notable improvements in various aspects of its operations and he modernised the stadium in several ways through the revenue he generated from significant long term sponsorships. Hobin's initiatives included streamlining internal processes, enhancing matchday experiences for supporters, and building stronger community relations. His emphasis on transparency and communication helped strengthen the trust between the club and its fanbase, ensuring a more cohesive and supportive environment. He doubled their club controlled income within 18months turning the clubs first profit for over a decade.

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Hobin's impact was not confined to the operational realm alone; his strategic insights played a crucial role in the club's competitive performance. His tenure witnessed Hartlepool United's successful campaigns, contributing to the team's stability and growth within the competitive landscape of English football. In Hobin's reign Hartlepool built on their promotion to the football league reaching the fourth round of the FA Cup eventually losing to Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park having disposed of Blackpool, Wycombe and Lincoln City, all higher league opposition. In his first season the club also reached the semi-final of he Papa Johns Trophy narrowly losing on penalties to Rotherham and deny the club their first Wembley appearance. Hobin left the club profitable with a huge array of sponsorship agreements in place for future years and nicely consolidated in the EFL.

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Hobin now uses all of his career experiences to consult within professional sport, and while football is his specialist area he regularly advises in other sports such as Rugby, Cricket and Basketball.

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Hobin has built a portfolio of clients in the UK, Europe and America, and his work has seen him consulting to clubs in the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain and the MLS.

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All work undertaken by SH Sports Consultants is strictly under NDA ensuring trust and confidentiality at all times.