Chris Badlan has joined the club as our new Head of Recruitment.

The 40-year-old replaces Jordan Miles, who has departed to take up a similar role at English Championship side Leeds United.

“The opportunity to come and work for Aberdeen was something I had to jump at”, said Chris.

“When I spoke with Alan Burrows and Steven Gunn, I made my mind up very quickly that this was something I wanted to be part of.

“My remit is to know every player and strive to bring the best to the club to ensure we continue to meet our footballing ambitions.”

Chris started his senior footballing career with Wolverhampton Wanderers, spending seven years at Molineux in a variety of roles, most notably as Head of Emerging Talent. It was whilst he was in the Black Country that he lined up next to Stuart Webber, who would later take him to Norwich in 2017 as Head of European Scouting.

However, it was with Coventry City as Head of Recruitment that Chris has enjoyed most of his success. In his four-and-a-half years with the Sky Blues, not only did the team win promotion from EFL League Two to the Championship, but several players were signed and sold at significant profit.

A short spell as Blackpool’s Sporting Director in early 2023 followed before making his return to football to lead the recruitment department at Cormack Park.

“With Darren being headhunted by Southampton and Jordan being targeted by Leeds Utd, it gives us some encouragement that we’ve made positive steps forward in this area which we will continue to develop,” Aberdeen FC Director of Football Steven Gunn said.

“When Jordan informed us of his decision to move on, we launched an extensive process, speaking to a wide variety of excellent candidates. Chris was the standout applicant. He is vastly experienced with previous roles across a number of large English clubs and brings with him a significant knowledge of the UK and European markets, where Aberdeen has enjoyed success in recent seasons.

“We are excited to work with him to build upon the positive developments achieved in recent years as we continue to grow and enhance the department.”

Chris will commence his role at Pittodrie immediately. Everyone at Aberdeen FC would like to thank Jordan Miles for his effort and contribution whilst at the club and wish him every success in his future career.

Gallery 36 | Rangers v Aberdeen

SNS Group (Alan Harvey & Craig Williamson)