The Consello Group, a global advisory and investing firm, has announced the appointment of real estate developer and entrepreneur Gary Neville — the former Manchester United player — as a partner in the firm’s Consello Strive business.
Neville will also become chairman of Strive’s UK business.
Other Consello Strive partners include 23-time tennis Grand Slam champion Serena Williams and seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady.
Launched in January, Consello Strive said it “serves as an advisory, investing, IP & content management and leadership development platform to support businesses commercializing and operating in sports, media and entertainment, including corporations, leagues, teams and prominent individuals.”
Consello Group said: “Since retiring from professional football, Neville has continued to play a prominent role in the European sports landscape, including roles as a broadcaster, coach, and team co-owner (Salford City).
“As an entrepreneur, Neville has also launched businesses across media, hospitality, real estate development and higher education as part of his Relentless Group.
“In his role as chairman of Consello Strive in the UK, Neville will oversee the company’s efforts to expand the Strive business in the UK marketplace, building on its existing financial advisory business and other services which the company has offered there since establishing its offices and presence in London last year.”
Consello chairman and CEO Declan Kelly said: “Gary is a born leader, world class athlete and successful entrepreneur who takes a self-described relentless approach to all of his professional and personal pursuits.
“We are thrilled to have him join our team and to help us further build out our presence in the UK in the months and years ahead.
“We will also be working directly with Gary to expand his business interests in the U.S. and other regions, further building on the very successful career he has developed both inside and outside of football over the last number of years.”
Neville said: “I’m delighted to join Consello and play a prominent role in the firm’s thriving business. Having worked in professional sports, media and entertainment for more than 30 years, I’ve seen firsthand how this world is evolving through technological innovation, content globalization, and the increasing role of institutional investment.
“Strive has assembled an exceptional team that is uniquely well-positioned to help corporations, leagues, teams and brands navigate these dynamic industries and reach their full potential.”
Janey Whiteside, Consello partner and CEO of Consello Growth and Business Development, said: “As we sought out individuals with the track record and tenacity to scale Strive’s operations, Gary stood out as an ideal representation of our Firm’s vision, values and multi-discipline expertise.
“He has created a legacy in the world’s most popular sport and successfully transitioned into various other content creation, investing and operating endeavors.”