With sharp investment instincts and a steady hand at the helm, Clowes remains instrumental in guiding the club toward a stronger future…
David Clowes’ acquisition of Derby
County in July 2022 was a crucial turning
point for the club, preventing it from
slipping into liquidation after nearly ten
months in administration. At the time,
the Rams were in turmoil, having
suffered relegation to League One for the
first time since 1986. Clowes’ arrival
provided much-needed stability, and
although immediate promotion was not
achieved, his backing eventually saw
Derby return to the Championship by the
end of the 2023/24 season.
A Legacy in Property Development
Before stepping into the football world,
Clowes had long been involved in his
family’s property business. His father,
Charles E. Clowes, founded the CWC
Group in 1964, building a vast real estate
portfolio that spanned over 120 sites.
Following Charles’ passing in 2015, David
took over as chairman, while his brother
Thomas assumed the role of managing
director. Under David’s leadership,
Clowes Developments has continued to
thrive, cementing its reputation as a
major player in Derbyshire’s property
sector.
Clowes’ expertise in business extends
beyond real estate. He previously
worked as acommercial pilot, spending
12 years with British Midland as both a
First Officer and later a Captain. Though
he has since left the aviation industry
professionally, he still enjoys flying for
leisure, piloting a Super King Air 200.
Passion for Derby County and Smart Investment
A lifelong Derby County fan, Clowes was
once a season ticket holder in the North
Stand at Pride Park before taking him
Some notable signings under Clowes’
ownership include:
– **Corey Blackett-Taylor (January 2024) –
£300,000**
– **Ebou Adams – £500,000**
– **Kenzo Goudmijn – £600,000**
– **Jacob Widell Zetterstrom – £1.4m**
– **Lars-Jorgen Salvesen – £800,000**
– **Sondres Langas – £4m**
His appointment of Paul Warne, known
for his expertise in League One, proved
pivotal in securing Derby’s promotion.
However, a rough patch in form during
the 2024/25 season led to Warne’s
departure, with Clowes making another
calculated decision by bringing in John
Eustace as the club’s new manager.
A Steady Hand at the Helm
Despite the challenges Derby County has
faced, Clowes remains a calm and
composed figure at the club, ensuring
financial and managerial stability. His
business acumen, combined with his
passion for the Rams, has provided
Derby with a solid foundation to build
upon as they look to re-establish
themselves in the Championship. With a
keen eye for investment and a steady
leadership approach, Clowes continues
to play a crucial role in shaping the club’s
future.
