AFC Wimbledon appoint new head of football operations

Craig Cope has been appointed as AFC Wimbledon’s new head of football operations.

Cope, who will be leaving his role as technical director at National League side Solihull Moors, will join the Dons in the new year [January 9].

Solihull, managed by former Dons boss Neal Ardley, reached the National League play-off final last season, losing 2-1 to Grimbsy Town.

The club outline that Cope will oversee all of the club’s football operations – including recruitment, scouting, analysis, technical and medical support, and all training ground logistics.

Cope has previously had recruitment and analytical roles at Nottingham Forest, Birmingham City, Notts County and Cheltenham Town.

Club chair Mick Buckley said: “We conducted a thorough search of candidates, and we looked closely at the different individuals and skillsets league one and league two clubs have appointed to similar roles – in order to determine what would best ‘fit’ us here.

“We are delighted to have secured Craig’s services and are looking forward to seeing what his drive, knowledge, determination and enthusiasm will bring to the role. He was extremely impressive in the capabilities and insight he showed during the interview process. 

“We believe his experience gained in building out an inaugural technical director role at Solihull will be invaluable as we look to overhaul and improve all aspects of our football operations.”

Head of recruitment Jamie Johnson, who joined the Dons in the summer following Johnnie Jackson’s appointment, will be staying until the end of the January transfer window.