Hearts announce hiring of Joe Savage as new sporting director

Hearts have confirmed the hiring of Joe Savage as the Tynecastle club’s new sporting director.

Tynecastle Park, the home of Hearts. Picture: SNS

The 36-year-old arrives in Gorgie having been head of recruitment at Preston North End for the past three years. He was previously with Lilywhites boss Alex Neil at Norwich City as chief scout having worked together at Hamilton Accies.

The hiring ends Hearts’ long wait for a sporting director to take over from the former director of football role held by ex-boss Craig Levein.

Jim Jefferies was hired in the summer to help out but this was a part-time role on an initial six-month deal. It is not yet known whether the Scottish Cup-winning manager will remain at the club as an advisor to the board.

Savage stated his delight at moving back to Scotland after five years working in the top two leagues in English football.

He told the Hearts website: “Hearts is such a massive club with fantastic facilities and truly unbelievable backing from fans and sponsors. We have everything we need to quickly get back to where we belong.

“I am delighted to be coming back to Scotland. I look forward to putting the experience I have gained over my time down south and the network of contacts I have built to the best possible use at Hearts. I can’t wait to get started.”

Owner Ann Budge said: “We have been looking for the right candidate for our Sporting Director role for some time and I could not be happier with the appointment. Joe brings not only experience, but also an energy and determination to succeed that makes him an ideal fit as we further develop our football operation over the coming months and years.”

Manager Robbie Neilson added: “I am really looking forward to working with Joe in the upcoming window and beyond. It is no secret we have been looking for the right person for this role for some time.

“I have been closely involved with the selection process and I am really confident that Joe and I will work well together. He has great experience and contacts across Europe and beyond. I believe he will be a great asset to the club.”

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