Arsenal have confirmed a major reshuffle behind the scenes with Richard Garlick promoted to CEO and four other new appointments after Tim Lewis' exit
Arsenal have announced a significant shake-up in their backroom staff, with Richard Garlick being promoted to the role of chief executive. The Gunners revealed on Friday morning that Tim Lewis, a long-term advisor to the Kroenke family since 2007, had stepped down from his position as executive-chair, triggering a major reshuffle behind the scenes.
Garlick, who previously served as the club's director of football operations and then managing director, has been given the role of CEO. In addition, Kelly Blaha and Otto Maly have been appointed as non-executive directors.
They are joined by Dave Steiner, a long-standing advisor to the Kroenke family, and producer-director Ben Winston - an Arsenal season ticket holder - who have also been named as non-executive directors.
Josh Kroenke, speaking about the changes, said: "We are delighted to promote Rich to CEO after an incredibly successful period as Managing Director of Arsenal. Rich has made an enormous impact on all fronts as we continue to strive to win major trophies, be financially sustainable and put our supporters at the heart of everything."
He added: "At this moment, we would like to thank Tim for his continued dedication and commitment to Arsenal in a period of transformational change for the club. He has played a pivotal role and ensured we are in a great position to continue to deliver our strategy in our ambition to win major trophies.
"In keeping with our desire to always move forward, we will strengthen our Board with some exciting additions who will bring vast experience to the club across a wide range of professions.
"The group know and love Arsenal, and will bring a different skillset and expertise while injecting fresh thinking and energy to support us all to achieve our ambitions."
Arsenal's boardroom shake-up follows a hectic summer and encouraging beginning to the campaign. The Gunners splashed approximately £250m on overhauling Mikel Arteta's squad.
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Martin Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze, Viktor Gyokeres and Noni Madueke all joined for substantial transfer fees. Departing executive Lewis was instrumental in securing Eze's switch from Crystal Palace, utilising his strong bond with Eagles chairman Steve Parish.
However, Arsenal's spending spree seems to have paid dividends with the north London outfit claiming victory in three of their first four Premier League fixtures. Arteta's men face a stern test this weekend when they host Manchester City at the Emirates.
Beyond domestic action, Arsenal also made an impressive start to their Champions League journey in midweek. They defeated Spanish outfit Athletic Bilbao 2-0 in their opening league phase encounter.