Thomas leaves Oxford to become Derby Head of Recruitment

DERBY COUNTY have hired Oxford United’s Mark Thomas to become their new Head of Recruitment.

Thomas joined Oxford in the same role in 2014 and the club have thanked him for “bringing in players who have starred” and “building a modern recruitment department” in a statement.

Thomas told the club's official website: “I am extremely proud of the work we have done together over the past nine seasons; developing young players and seeing the club grow and push for promotion.

“However, it’s now time for a new challenge, and the chance to join a huge club like Derby was too exciting to turn down. I know I am leaving a club that has extremely exciting plans and I leave on the best of terms, wishing everyone the best of luck for the future."

The Rams have not had a Head of Recruitment since the exit of Joe McClaren in May 2022 after six years' service. They advertised for a replacement in October.

Contrary to reports (including on TGG initially) Thomas has not been appointed as Director of Football at Derby.

In September, owner David Clowes and CEO Stephen Pearce had insisted there were “no plans” to hire for that role. They were addressing a question at a supporters’ club meeting as to why Paul Warne had been appointed Head Coach and not manager, which was the title of his predecessors Liam Rosenior and Wayne Rooney.

"There is nothing to read into the title of Head Coach – there is no plan for Technical Director/ Director of Football – it is just commensurate with Head of Recruitment, and Head of Academy, which they will move their focus to now," the pair said, according to the minutes of the meeting.