ICM Stellar Sports is leading the way once again with a bold new strategy focused on breaking down the barriers that stop people of talent succeeding.

The appointments of Nnamdi Ogugua and Pokuaa Ansere as the respective Head and Manager of Diversity and Inclusion sends a signal to the wider football industry that more must be done to dismantle discrimination

ICM Stellar Sports is also welcoming Morgane Roche to its team of agents in the men’s game, continuing our tradition of promoting women to roles helping guide the careers of elite players.

Nnamdi said: “ICM Stellar has always been about discovering people of talent and helping them fulfil their potential. We are broadening this philosophy to help people succeed in other areas.

“When people think of elite sport they see the superstars but there are vast opportunities in the ever-growing sports industry. Lots of people have the talent but don’t get the chances to be a part of that. We want to open more doors, not just in the sports industry but in business, communities and beyond.”

While ICM Stellar are already longstanding supporters of organisations that provide mentoring to people in need of support, the organisation feels more must be done to reach out to people who face blocks to progression because of their lifestyle or culture.

Among plans being formulated are to work more closely with existing organisations but also set up initiatives of our own that offer pathways for people to break into the sports industry.

Pokuaa said: “Any business that doesn’t take diversity seriously is heading for decline. The best companies have the best people and people can’t be at their best when they are having to hide parts of who they are.

“Sport still has some way to go before it can truly say it respects all diversity but we are heading in the right direction and it is right that a leading organisation like ICM Stellar Sports are playing their part in leading that evolution.”

Co-chairman of ICM Stellar Sports, Jonathan Barnett, added: “One of the reasons why ICM Stellar Sports is the world’s number one soccer agency is our belief in people. We have always stood up against inequality and are proud to have such a diverse range of clients, staff and friends.

“Our hope is to continue to attract the very best people to work with our organisation but also go further and inspire people to be successful in whatever it is they chose to do without ever having to apologise for their background or who they are.”