Manchester United Chief Executive David Gill has announced today that he will be standing down from his post this summer.
Gill has been on United board since 1997 and though he steps down from the current role, he will remain with the club as a director. He initially joined the club as a finance director and was moved to his present role in 2003.
He was appointed vice chairman of the Football Association in October 2012 and will be among the nominated candidates for upcoming UEFA Executive Committee elections in May 2013. He was quoted on the club’s official website:
“It has been the greatest privilege to serve Manchester United for 16 wonderful years – the last 10 of which as its chief executive.”
“I have worked alongside the finest manager 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.
“It has been a very hard decision because I love this club and, as the fans’ banner says, it is, ‘more than a religion.”
During his time at the club, United have not only established themselves as a major footballing power in England but a force to reckon with in Europe as well.
Further, the club has reached great financial heights, despite being burdened with gargantuan debts by the American owners.
Reflecting on this marvellous journey Gill said that he experienced various highs and lows at the club, which in a way makes the club and the sport so compelling.
He mentions winning the treble in 1999 and League and Champions League double in 2008 are some of the highs he witnessed, while last season’s title defeat at the hands of Manchester City is one of the major heart breaks he has gone through.
He says that after 10 years in charge, the time is appropriate for someone new to carry on from here as he feels all businesses need to refresh themselves with new management and ideas. Executive vice chairman Ed Woodward will assume Gill’s responsibilities hereafter.
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