While Celtic fans are naturally engrossed in the drama of player transfers, both arrivals and departures, there’s equally important actions unfolding behind the scenes where crucial deals are struck and financial strategies are crafted.

Glasgow World is reporting, Celtic Commercial Director Adrian Filby is set to leave the club to take up the same role with English Premier League side Aston Villa.

Filby, an experienced figure in Celtic’s executive side, has been a part of the Hoops since 2008 in his second stint at the club. His initial spell at Celtic Park saw him working as a Special Projects manager between 1997 and 2002 before moving into the Scottish media industry. Filby leaves after almost 16 years in his second spell with Celtic having landed some pretty big deals.

During his tenure as Commercial Director, Filby collaborated closely with former Celtic CEO Peter Lawwell, now the club’s chairman, and current CEO Michael Nicholson. He played a crucial role in securing major deals, including the record-breaking kit sponsorship with adidas in March 2020. This five-year agreement is considered the most lucrative in Scottish sport history.

Filby also oversaw the signing of a four-year partnership with EA Sports, establishing them as the exclusive Official Video Game Partner of the Scottish Premiership champions.

With Filby’s departure, Celtic now faces the task of finding a capable successor at a critical juncture. The current kit deal with adidas is set to expire next summer, and the club is actively searching for their next big partnership. Filby’s exit adds another layer of complexity to this ongoing commercial endeavour.