Chris Bird is a former Chief Operating Officer and Director of Manchester City Football Club and a former Non-Executive Director and Advisor to JD Sports PLC. He currently serves as CEO of the Raheem Sterling Foundation and is Co-Founder of Not Really Here Media and EQ Esports. With extensive experience across international sport, sponsorship, community engagement, and strategic development, Bird now applies his expertise to the iGaming sector as a strategic consultant for 1xBet.
In this capacity, Bird focuses on player protection, integrity, and evidence-based responsible gaming practices. He is a member of the 1xCare Advisory Committee, appointed in 2026 to strengthen global player protection and responsible gaming initiatives. His work includes the development of the Player Protection Index Series and the oversight framework of the committee.
Bird's career has spanned high-level executive roles in major sports organizations and retail, as well as entrepreneurial ventures in media and esports. His combination of operational leadership, brand strategy, and community engagement informs his advisory role in the gambling industry.
Career History
| Company | Role | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| 1xbet | Strategic Consultant | – present |