CLUB DIRECTOR

John Coyne is a former professional footballer who began his career straight from school, graduating from the Everton Academy before signing full-time with Wigan Athletic in the late 1990s. He went on to enjoy a decade competing at the top levels of non-league football.

Now Managing Director of UK-based software company Venditan, John has been with the business for over 20 years, leading its growth and innovation across the eCommerce and retail technology sectors.

Often invited to speak at some of Europe's biggest eCommerce, Fintech and AI events, John is widely regarded as one of the best known technology leaders in the North of England, and has created hundreds of jobs within the sector.

Before joining Altrincham FC in November 2019, John was part of the board of directors at Swinton Lions Rugby League Club. During his tenure, he helped transform the club from the brink of bankruptcy to a sustainable operation, achieving its highest Championship finish in nearly 50 years.

At Altrincham, John was instrumental in guiding the club through the challenges of COVID-19, culminating in promotion. Since then, he has played a key role in several commercial milestones, including a full digital transformation that unified retail, ticketing, hospitality, and sponsorship under a single supporter account. He also spearheaded the club’s online retail expansion and town centre store, and negotiated the most lucrative kit deal in the club’s history with PUMA.

John remains an active member of Altrincham’s leadership team following the board restructure in summer 2025, continuing to contribute across multiple areas of the club’s operations.