Ben Parker and Scott Walker have joined the PFA as Community Liaison Executives to support the delivery of community initiatives and partnerships across the football leagues.
Ben Parker started his career with Leeds United and went on to complete spells with Guiseley and Harrogate Town. After retiring from playing, Parker rejoined Leeds United as a Community Link Officer, and also supported the club with match day punditry and commentary.
Scott Walker led a successful semi-professional career with Newport County, Chippenham Town and Weston Super Mare, and also won the FA Vase Final at Wembley with Truro City. He has since spent over 20 years with Exeter City, most recently as Head of Participation at the club’s Community Trust helping to deliver sport, education and social inclusion projects across the South West.
Commenting on his appointment to the PFA’s Community team, Ben Parker said:
“I am really delighted to join the PFA as a Community Liaison Executive at such an exciting time for the union.
“I’ve come from a professional playing background, so have experienced first-hand the impact the PFA can have on members. I feel privileged to be able to play a part in this work, and I’m looking forward to getting started and collaborating with clubs, CCOs and players.”
Scott Walker said:
“I feel really honoured to be taking on this role at the PFA. There are so many fantastic opportunities available to players and having the opportunity to contribute to the department’s work means a lot to me.
“I’m really excited to apply my 20-or-so years in this space to the PFA’s various initiatives and hopefully strengthen the already-brilliant work the union is doing for members.”
The PFA contributes funding and resources to support the vast network of Club Community Organisations which supply a vital network for the engagement of our members away from the pitch.
We're also committed to publicly celebrating the fantastic community outreach work players do to support Community Club Organisations and their local communities. These initiatives elevate the football industry's reputation and inspire more footballers to recognise the power they have to make positive changes in the world.
This is acknowledged through the PFA Community Champion Awards, which highlight players who have made their work with communities and good causes central to their role as a professional footballer.
Click here to read more about the PFA’s Community department.
