Arsenal confirm huge change with shock exit and Josh Kroenke revamp planned

Latest Arsenal news as Tim Lewis leaves his role as executive vice-chair of the Gunners as the Emirates Stadium side shake up their board

Arsenal have announced a major boardroom revamp with long-serving Tim Lewis leaving his role as the club’s executive vice-chair.

Lewis departs North London having been a trusted advisor of the Kroenke family for nearly two decades. The 62-year-old has advised Kroenke Sports & Entertainment since 2007 and was appointed as an Arsenal director in September 2020.

Lewis was then promoted to executive vice-chair in March 2023. Richard Garlick will become the club’s chief executive officer, while Kelly Blaha and Otto Maly have both joined the board as non-executive directors alongside long-time KSE advisor, Dave Steiner.

Producer and director, Ben Winston, has also been appointed as a non-executive director. A statement from Josh Kroenke read: “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.

“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.”

Lewis has advised Stan Kroenke since 2007 – a period which included his initial investment into the club. Kroenke purchased a 9.9 percent stake from ITV plc in 2007.

Lewis had reportedly built a strong relationship with current boss Mikel Arteta and was crucial in the Spanish coach signing a new contract in 2022.

He has also become increasingly promiment among Premier League chiefs. Lewis has reportedly been vocal in his opposition to takeovers linked to nation states, while he is a huge supporter of the financial fair play rules currently employed by the top flight.

What have you made to Arsenal’s start to the season? Share your thoughts in the comments below

Arsenal have enjoyed a positive start to the new season despite the overhaul behind the scenes. They sit second in the Premier League after winning three out of their opening four games of the campaign.

That positive start comes after a summer in which Arsenal invested heavily on transfers. The North London side spent around £250 million on new players throughout the transfer window – an amount that includes the £60m addition of Eberechi Eze.

Lewis apparently played a key role in that deal, using his close relationship with Steve Parish to get a deal over the line.

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