The Newcastle Jets mean business in 2024/25 with a couple of key signings away from the playing paddock.
Ken Schembri, who has previously worked with the Central Coast Mariners and was integral in their recent success, joins the Hunter-based organisation as general manager of football.
Another addition is Ben Hawes as the club’s GM of commercial, digital and marketing.
The appointment of the duo reaffirms Maverick Sports Partners’ intent to invest in high-quality resources.
Schembri will focus on managing the A-League Men’s (ALM) roster as well as providing strategic direction to player performance and development.
As well, recruitment is expected to be another key responsibility across all football departments.
Hawes, meanwhile, links up with Newcastle to focus on expanding and diversifying the Jets commercial revenue streams, including growing the sponsorship portfolio and commercialising the club’s digital channels as well as implementing all new marketing and fan engagement strategies.
He’s previously worked in sponsorship, marketing and content roles at the National Rugby League (NRL), Sportsbet, BlueBet and Sydney FC.
Maverick Sports Partners director Maurice Bisetto welcomed the pair to the fold.
“We are excited to have both Ken and Ben join the Newcastle Jets team,” he said.
“They will be essential to the strategy and direction of the club’s new era, providing expertise and support, on and off the pitch.”
So far, ALM coach Rob Stanton has signed Ben van Dorssen (scholarship contract – 2025-26), Eli Adams (2026-27), Alex Nunes (scholarship contact – 2025-26), Zac Bowling (scholarship contract), Oscar Fryer, Aleksandar Šušnjar and Matthew Scarcella (on loan from Sydney FC).
However, Jason Hoffman (retired), Lucas Mauragis, Brandon O’Neill, Trent Buhagiar, Reno Piscopo, Jason Berthomier, Daniel Stynes, Archie Goodwin, Michael Weier, Carl Jenkinson and Lucas Mauragis have departed.
The Jets are eagerly preparing for an Australia Cup play-off against Western United in Darwin on 24 July.
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