Everton Set to Appoint New Chief Executive Amid Transformation Plans
Everton Football Club is on the verge of appointing a new chief executive, tasked with spearheading a significant transformation both on and off the field this summer. This move signals a commitment to moving beyond a challenging period in the club’s history. According to The i Paper, the announcement is expected to be made in the coming weeks.
Leeds United’s Angus Kinnear has emerged as a leading candidate for the role, although there are other potential options being considered. Sources close to the club have remained tight-lipped regarding discussions with various candidates, which have intensified in the past fortnight.
A club insider indicated that given the ambitious plans laid out by the Friedkin Group (TFG) and the substantial challenges anticipated this summer, the new chief executive will likely be a well-known figure with substantial experience in the Premier League. The executive recruitment firm Nolan Partners has been enlisted to identify the right candidate, and it is noted that the possibility of hiring someone currently employed elsewhere hasn’t been dismissed.
The role is deemed crucial by the Friedkin family, with the new appointee expected to lead the organization decisively. Dan Friedkin and his son Ryan will likely refrain from public interviews, positioning themselves as the public face of Everton while exercising considerable influence during a pivotal time for the club.
In addition to a transformative summer on the footballing side—where a significant influx of players and a generous transfer budget are anticipated as Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) concerns ease—the club is also preparing for a major transition as they move to their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. This week’s inaugural test event was deemed a significant success internally, with a follow-up match scheduled for late March that will accommodate 25,000 fans. By the time Everton begins the next season at their new venue, it will likely appear different externally, as the club is considering options to sell naming rights and establish partnerships aimed at maximizing commercial revenue. The new CEO will play a pivotal role in these initiatives.
The future of director of football Kevin Thelwell is another pressing matter that the new CEO will need to address. His contract is set to expire at the season’s end, and discussions regarding a potential extension are unlikely to commence until a new executive is in place. Other prominent names linked to the Everton CEO position include former Arsenal CEO Vinai Venkatesham—though this has been downplayed by several sources—Brighton’s Paul Barber, and former Nottingham Forest executive Dane Murphy. Currently, Colin Chong has been serving as interim CEO and has reportedly impressed the Friedkin Group.
Positive Outlook as Everton Eyes a New Era
Whoever takes on the role will step into a club environment that is radiating a newfound sense of optimism. The return of David Moyes has exceeded expectations, with one source describing his influence as a factor that has “lifted everyone at Everton.” Although no official statements have been made, the 13-point gap between Everton and the relegation zone suggests they are almost certain to commence the next season in the Premier League, a remarkable turnaround considering they were perilously close to the relegation zone when Moyes was reappointed.
Moyes is expected to play a significant role in recruitment this summer, with as many as 13 players predicted to depart the squad. He is viewed by the club’s hierarchy as an “anchor” around which a new team will be constructed.
The sense of a new era was further underscored by the recent test event at Bramley-Moore Dock. However, some concerns were raised regarding transportation issues surrounding Sandhill station, as fans reported having to wait in the cold for trains. In response, both the local council and Merseyrail have committed to addressing these concerns, with plans for more frequent train services on match days being the most immediate solution. Club representatives emphasized that the purpose of these test events was to identify and resolve any issues that may arise.
