Sheffield United: CEO Stephen Bettis reaches 10 years in post at Bramall Lane

The Blades were one of only four clubs in the Championship to make a profit in the last financial year. This isn’t a one-off – they’ve achieved this in four of the past six seasons, but it isn’t typical in the modern game.

United have broken their transfer record seven times and also purchased their stadium, land for a new training ground and bought the adjoining hotel with funds created through the successes of the past 10 years.

One of the key elements of United’s production on and off the pitch is the club’s outstanding academy.

Bettis has ensured that it remains a focal point – with several players becoming key assets, including Iliman Ndiaye and Will Osula, or developing into current starters, such as Sydie Peck, Oliver Arblaster, Andre Brooks and Femi Seriki.

His efforts are certainly appreciated by manager Wilder.

“It’s fair to say that without Stephen we would not have enjoyed the good times that we have had, behind the scenes he has been a major part in what has been achieved and where the club stands, his role should not be underestimated in where we are, specifically being a go-between the boards that have been in place and the football operations,” he said.

“On a personal level, Stephen has been huge advocate of what I’ve wanted to achieve at Bramall Lane and whilst it has not been plain sailing, like me, he has the best interests of the club at heart and he deserves to be celebrated.”

A club shouldn’t be solely judged on a Saturday result or a balance sheet. Fan consultation and engagement matters. Bettis chairs all meetings with the club’s Fan Advisory Board and is known to maintain relationships with key supporters groups.

He’s also improved supporter and hospitality experiences, including having a big influence in the introduction of safe-standing at Bramall Lane.

As we’ve become fully aware in recent times, strong connections to the EFL and Premier League are also important for clubs.

EFL Chief Executive Trevor Birch, who previously held the same role at Sheffield United, is another to speak highly of Bettis.

He said: “He understands what the club means to the city and the local community and has also made an important contribution to the development of the League on behalf of Sheffield United. Reaching this milestone reflects his resilience, leadership and service, and he should be very proud of the past decade.”

Bettis hasn’t always received the credit he deserves. On more than one occasion he’s had to come into the studio at BBC Sheffield and address concerns from fans. He’s always been willing to front up.

There will no doubt be further challenges in the future. Yet with Bettis as CEO, Blades’ fans can feel reassured they’ve got a man who’s up to the task.