Everton restructures executive leadership team, board

SportsBusiness

Everton has announced a major restructure of its executive leadership team and board following the departure of CEO, Robert Elstone.

Professor Denise Barrett-Baxendale will take over from Robert Elstone as Everton’s Chief Executive Officer from 1 June.

Professor Barrett-Baxendale, who is currently the club’s Deputy Chief Executive with responsibility for Human Resources, Marketing and Media, Legal, Risk and Governance, Operations and Ticketing, has also played an increasing role in the running of the club’s Football Operations, including involvement with the first-team, Under-23s, the club’s Academy set-up and is the club’s lead on the Goodison Park legacy project.

Having joined Everton in the Community in 2010 as Chief Executive Officer, she was then promoted to Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Chief Executive of the club in 2013.

In this period she has led numerous initiatives, including enhancing the matchday experience and fan engagement which have contributed to record-breaking attendances over recent seasons.

She has also taken the lead in establishing new departments including Fan Services, Legal, Risk and Governance and the club’s first Disability Liaison team. She has also transformed Everton in the Community into one of the world’s leading sports charities and in 2014 was awarded an MBE for her services to the Community.

On her promotion to the Chief Executive Officer role, Professor Barrett-Baxendale said: “I am so proud to be given this opportunity and grateful for the support of the Chairman, Board of Directors and Mr Moshiri.

“I fully understand the privileged position that I will be taking up and the responsibilities that come with it. This is a great club – footballing royalty – with the best, most committed fans and I can assure every single Evertonian that I am completely committed to driving our club forward and making the most of the opportunities that we have.

“I know what the priorities are and I’m determined that we make progress in these areas. It’s also important to me that we make our progress in the right way – in the ‘Everton way’ – and this includes listening, consulting and collaborating on all important Club matters.”

There will also be a change on the club’s Board of Directors, with Dr Keith Harris becoming Deputy Chairman in place of Jon Woods who will remain on the Board.

Credit: fcbusiness.co.uk

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