Former Rangers director takes on new role with English non-league side in ‘full-circle moment’
Karim Virani has announced his latest career move to English non-league side Hashtag United
Former Rangers commercial director Karim Virani has taken on a new role since leaving Glasgow. The former Ibrox figure has announced his new position within the board of English non-league club Hashtag United.
The Essex-based club currently compete in the Isthmian League, a semi-professional regional football league that forms levels seven and eight in the English pyramid. Hashtag United was formed in 2016 by Spencer Carmichael-Brown, a YouTuber also know as Spencer FC or Spencer Owen.
In 2018, former Chelsea star and Spain international Cesar Azpilicueta invested in Hashtag and became a co-owner of the club.
Former Rangers director Karim Virani joins Hashtag United board
Back in December 2024, it was announced that Virani was quitting Rangers to pursue new opportunities beyond Ibrox. After interim chairman John Gilligan announced significant change to the boardroom, Virani left the Glasgow side.
He has announced his new role on LinkedIn, posting that he is ‘delighted’ to take on his new role with Hashtag United.
“Delighted to announce that I’ve joined the Board of Hashtag United at an incredible juncture in the club’s evolution,” Virani wrote.
“Over the summer, I explored a number of opportunities to join football club boards. Hashtag United always stood out as the right choice for me, both logically and emotionally.
“Hashtag United is a club that has long been close to my heart. I was originally a fan of Spencer FC, before later having the opportunity to collaborate with Spencer Carmichael-Brown and Seb Carmichael-Brown during my time at West Ham United FC. To now be joining the Board feels like a genuine full-circle moment.”
Focus on Hashtag United ‘long-term growth’
Virani is eager to see Hashtag United continue to grow, having seen them go from strength to strength since they were founded. The Tags are currently 19th in the Isthmian League, which is a feeder league for the National League South.
“I’m excited to support the club as it enters its next phase, helping ensure the foundations are in place for sustainable long-term growth, alongside Spencer, Joe Gorman in his new role as CEO, and the wider Board and leadership team,” Virani continued.
“It’s a privilege to join the Board, and I’m really looking forward to working with Spencer, Joe and the rest of the Board as we take the next steps together.
“If you’re interested in learning more about what we’re building at Hashtag United, feel free to reach out.”