Shields joins from Southampton, where he is Head of Senior Recruitment. Shields is responsible for the Saints’ senior recruitment. Prior to his role with Southampton, Shields spent nine years at Manchester City, initially as Academy Scouting Manager and then becoming Head of Academy Recruitment and Talent Management. Earlier in his career he acted as an academy scout at Crystal Palace and Fulham.


Shields will start his new role when his obligations with Southampton are complete.


Chelsea chairman Todd Boehly and co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali said: ‘Joe is another great addition to Chelsea, and we’re thrilled to have him on board. We have a clear plan and will adopt a modern and data-driven philosophy, focused on elite emerging talent. We’re assembling a deep and collaborative management team who are eager to build a continued sustained winner at Chelsea. Joe has a great track record and understanding of the game and emerging talent. We know we have another strong leader and a team player who will help us continue to build our world-class football organisation.’