Goal.com

Feb 21, 2013 10:40:14 AM

Manchester United has announced a series of changes to its senior management structure, headlined by David Gill’s decision to step down as chief executive in June.

Manchester United has announced a series of changes to its senior management structure, headlined by David Gill’s decision to step down as chief executive in June.

Gill joined the English Premier League giant’s board as finance director in February 1997 and has been its chief executive since September 2003. Gill will remain a club director with executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward set to assume his responsibilities. The 55-year-old’s decision comes after he was appointed vice-chairman of the English Football Association in October. He has been nominated as its candidate in the upcoming UEFA Executive Committee elections in May.

“It has been the greatest privilege to serve Manchester United for 16 wonderful years – the last 10 of which as its chief executive,” said Gill. “I have worked alongside the finest manager (Sir Alex Ferguson) in the history of the game and been part of what I consider to be the best club in the best sport in the world. However, I have always been conscious of the fact that, as a member of staff, I was always just a temporary custodian of this marvellous institution. I am also of the view that all businesses need to refresh themselves with new management and ideas and after 10 years in charge I believe it is appropriate for someone new to pick up the baton. I am looking forward to continuing my involvement on the club board. And I hope to be able to make a contribution to the game on a wider national and European level.”

From July 1, Woodward will have overall responsibility for the club, including, in conjunction with Ferguson, facilitating transfer activity. In a revised management structure taking effect from this date, Richard Arnold, the current commercial director, has been appointed as United’s new group managing director, overseeing all commercial and operational aspects of the club. Michael Bolingbroke, chief operating officer, will report into Arnold and consolidate the club’s operations under him. His new position will see him take responsibility for the club’s local, national and global corporate social responsibility projects.

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