Simon Greenberg Dies Aged 52
Simon Greenberg, former sports journalist, Director of Corporate Affairs at News International and Director of Communications and Public Affairs at Chelsea, has died aged 52.
Greenberg started his career in sports journalism, working for Fleet Street newspapers including The Mail on Sunday, where he rose to become Deputy Sports Editor in his late 20s before joining Chelsea at the start of the Roman Abramovich era.
In his role at Chelsea, he was a constant beside manager Jose Mourinho in press conferences, changing the face of the club’s dealings with the media before leaving the Premier League club to join News International (now News UK), where he served as Director of Corporate Affairs.
Later, at News International, he became the company’s Global Head of Rights, and set up Dow Jones Sports Intelligence, which helps organisations around the world with data and technology solutions.
As Dow Jones Sports Intelligence became an Official Partner of the Sport Industry Awards, Greenberg founded the Integrity and Impact Award and was the driving force behind its success. The Award is now in its third year, and rewards those who uphold trust in sport.
Most recently, Greenberg was Director of Corporate Affairs at The Athletic
“We are deeply saddened to hear of Simon’s passing,” said Nick Keller, Chairman, Sport Industry Group.
“He founded the Integrity & Impact Award at the Sport Industry Awards, which allowed us all to spend more time with him as he passionately debated and engaged around this Award. It is a fitting legacy for us to remember him by.
“But mostly, our love and support goes to his young family as we reflect on the loss of a friend and colleague.”
Greenberg died on Monday, August 30, 2021, leaving his wife Fran and young family.
