Who is Grace Williams? Newcastle hire new Director of Women’s Football

26th August 2025 Oliver Taliku
Newcastle hire Grace Williams as new Director of Football

Newcastle United have appointed a new Director of Women’s Football with the vastly experienced Grace Williams taking charge.  

Williams was previously the Head of Women’s Football for Crystal Palace.

With the Eagles, Williams helped to get the club promoted to the WSL for the first time in their history.

Grace Williams joins Newcastle

Before Williams was with Crystal Palace she was also at the helm of Watford as they achieved promotion to the Championship.

The experienced director also helped Bristol City secure promotion to thee top flight while holding the role of club general manager.

Speaking after her appointment to Newcastle, Williams discussed the ambitions of the club that drew her in.

“I am extremely proud to be joining Newcastle United Women as the Director of Women’s Football. It is clear just how ambitious this club is, and they have a clear vision for success, so it felt like the perfect fit for me.

“I can’t wait to get started and to help build on the really strong foundations that are already here.”

Newcastle’s new director also played a pivotal role in the restructuring of Welsh football during a brief spell with FA Wales.

Having helped three different teams gain promotion during her time with various clubs, Williams could be crucial in helping the Magpies get back to the WSL.

Newcastle United ready to challenge for promotion

There is no doubt that Newcastle can challenge for promotion this season with a new-look team.

The WSL is expanding to 14 teams by the 2026/27 season and as a result, the top two from WSL2 this year will gain immediate promotion to the top division.

Newcastle have also made some huge signings this summer that should enable them to challenge for the title.

The Magpies made the headline transfer of Jordan Nobbs, with the all-time WSL record appearance holder sure to bring some valuable experience to the Championship.

Jemma Purfield, Molly Pike and Aoife Mannion complete the club’s new additions for the new season.

Newcastle kick off their season against Nottingham Forest on Sunday, September 7th.

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About Oliver Taliku 157 Articles
Olly Taliku has worked with highly respected sports and gambling websites where he has produced hundreds of articles, as well as being published with Burton Albion and Chesterfield FC. At Burton Olly worked closely alongside the women's team, producing mainly matchday content including reports and interviews. He also has experience as an accredited Premier League and EFL writer for Prost International where he worked during the 2021/22 season to produce matchday content as an on location reporter. Olly specialises in women's football as well as long form SEO content plus news and tips. While he enjoys writing about all football, Olly supports Arsenal passionately as a lifelong fan of the club.