Progressive step to be taken
The Football League is to appoint a Chief Executive to oversee the management and strategic direction of the organisation, with Chairman Greg Clarke moving from an executive to non-executive role.
The position will be advertised nationally in the near future with the appointment process being overseen by a sub-committee of the Football League Board chaired by Independent Director Richard Bowker and also comprising of Clarke, Keith Lamb (Middlesbrough) and John Nixon (Carlisle United).
Explaining the Board’s decision to appoint a Chief Executive, Clarke said: “This is a progressive step that will enable The Football League to provide better governance and leadership to its clubs. When I was appointed three years ago, I made it clear to the Board that a management structure of this type would meet with my approval and now is a sensible time to make this change.
“It is our intention to find a high calibre individual that can take The Football League forward and ensure that we continue to deliver the outstanding competitions that our clubs and the millions of people who watch our matches deserve.”
Managing director John Nixon said: "It's something which has been reviewed by the board of the Football League for almost 12 months. It's a position that is probably needed to help the Football League go forward.
"It means that we'll have a Chief Executive who will run the London and Preston offices. That will become important, when there's a change in football governance, because the Chief Executive will be able to implement any adjustments which are required.
"It's a good thing for the future and now is the right time to do it."
