The Chief Operating Officer of Salford Red Devils has resigned, releasing a statement detailing reasons which includes allegations against ownership of using ‘misogynistic language’.
Claire Bradbury, the club’s Chief Operating Officer (COO), has stepped down and confirmed as such on her LinkedIn profile, releasing a statement addressed to the fans to explain why. In that statement, she alleges that it was suggested to her by ownership that she should “sleep with an individual at the RFL to ‘smooth things over'”.
Bradbury joined the club last October but has not seen out a full year at the club who are in crisis with serious concerns over whether they will have enough players to field a team in Sunday’s game against Wakefield Trinity.
They had to use nine loan players last week with seven arriving in the days before the game but rival Super League clubs are believed to be reluctant to send more. Meanwhile existing loan player Tom Whitehead has been recalled by Warrington Wolves and sent out on loan to Championship side Oldham.
Sunday’s game against Wakefield Trinity is already set to see a major fan protest against the owners and following Bradbury’s resignation and the incredible allegations against the owners that she makes, fans of the club will likely be even more discontented and outraged at ownership.
Salford Red Devils ownership accused of ‘misogynistic’ and ‘inappropriate’ language
Posting on her LinkedIn, Bradbury admitted that she had “debated whether to post this” but deemed it “too important to say nothing”, before formally confirming her resignation and the reasons why.
She captioned her letter, which was addressed to the fans, with the following: “It’s with huge sadness that earlier this week I resigned from my role as COO. What was a dream job I’d worked so hard for and such a proud moment in my career, is one I can no longer do.
“I hope no other Club experiences what we have been through this year…”
The letter itself would confirm her resignation within the first paragraph whilst also revealing that she had yet to be paid July’s wages at the time of writing, two weeks into August.
Bradbury outlined her ‘ambition’ to “create a self-sustaining, top-performing organisation off the pitch, delivering long-term sustainability and growth”, something she claims she ‘gave everything’ to.
From there, Bradbury outlined the issues and reasons for her resignation which paint an insight into how desperate the situation has been at Salford Red Devils in recent months.
The statement reads: “However, over recent months, the conditions under which I and my colleagues have been required to operate made it impossible for me to deliver my role to the standards I set for myself and for the Club. Repeated delays in salary payments, an absence of essential operational tools, and a lack of agreed structure, strategy, or investment have significantly impacted the ability of staff to perform their jobs effectively. Despite this, our team continued to show grace and professionalism, working tirelessly for the benefit of the Club and its supporters.
“In my opinion strong leadership in sport requires transparency, respect, understanding of fandom and culture, and a willingness to listen to experienced staff. Unfortunately, I have not felt that over recent months. This environment one of uncertainty, inadequate resources, and decisions taken without collaborative consultation has made it increasingly difficult to protect staff wellbeing and maintain operational standards. Love for the Club, loyalty to fans and professional pride is why the Club continues to operate, despite this.
“I am particularly sad that my time here ends without being able to implement the growth strategy and brand plans I designed ones I know could have taken the Club forward. Whilst funding may yet arrive, my concern is what may have been lost over this time, a decimated squad and a historic Club with its soul being ripped out. The togetherness of our team, sponsors and supporters is what makes this Club special.
“It’s important to share something more personal, as a senior woman in business. Misogynistic, inappropriate language from the ownership suggesting I sleep with an individual at the RFL to ‘smooth things over’ is not acceptable. At the time I stayed quiet because I wanted the Club to succeed. I’m disappointed in myself that I didn’t stand up to it then so I’m voicing it now as it should be heard for the integrity and evolution of rugby league, and for all women who work in sport.
“My decision to resign was not taken lightly. I care deeply for Salford Red Devils, our supporters, and the people I have worked alongside. I married a passionate Salfordian, have in-laws who are lifelong fans, and younger family members who play rugby league. Its heartbreaking, but I cannot continue in a role where, in my view, the foundations needed for professional success are not in place, and where trust between leadership and staff has been eroded.
“To our fans – you have been a constant source of motivation. You deserve a Club run with transparency, respect, and ambition. Salford Red Devils should be one of, if not the best Club in Super League. I remain grateful for the opportunity and am truly sorry we did not get to achieve the vision I know was possible. Under different circumstances, I have no doubt we would have built this Club.”
You can view the full statement here.
Serious About Rugby League have contacted Salford Red Devils for a response to the allegations.
