Rangers Part Ways with Chief Executive and Sporting Director

Rangers Part Ways with Chief Executive and Sporting Director

Rangers Part Ways with Chief Executive and Sporting Director

Rangers Football Club has terminated the contracts of chief executive Patrick Stewart and sporting director Kevin Thelwell, effective immediately. The Scottish Premiership club indicated that their leadership styles do not align with the organization's "vision for the next chapter."

Both executives faced criticism from fans after a disappointing start to the season, which culminated in the dismissal of head coach Russell Martin in October, just 17 games into his tenure.

Stewart, who previously served as chief executive at Manchester United, joined Rangers in December, while Thelwell was appointed in April but only took up his role after departing Everton at the end of last season.

The club is currently undergoing a takeover by a U.S.-based consortium led by Andrew Cavenagh, who has since appointed director Fraser Thornton as interim chief executive while they search for permanent replacements.

In a statement, Chairman Cavenagh remarked, "We have now had six months to assess the club's needs and to better understand Patrick and Kev. Simply put, the qualities we need in a CEO and sporting director today differ from what we believe Patrick and Kev can provide. We seek individuals who align with our vision for the next chapter."

Rangers are currently positioned eighth in the Scottish Premiership, trailing leaders Heart of Midlothian by 11 points, and failed to qualify for the Champions League prior to Martin's dismissal. Under new head coach Danny Rohl, the team has narrowed the gap to nine points domestically and climbed to fourth place, although they have lost all four of their Europa League matches, including two under Rohl's management, amid growing criticism of their summer transfer activities.

Cavenagh stated, "Responsible change is measured and steady. Our primary focus has been to enhance sporting performance, which led to our decision to part ways with Russell and bring in Danny. Danny has begun the process of improving on-pitch performance, allowing us to concentrate on other aspects of the club."

Stewart, who became chairman in December after an 18-year career at Manchester United, held the position of chief executive and previously worked for UEFA's Champions League commercial agency. He was also appointed to the Scottish Professional Football League board five months ago.

Thelwell joined Rangers after a three-year tenure as Everton's director of football and previously served as head of sport for Major League Soccer's New York Red Bulls.

Cavenagh acknowledged, "Patrick and Kev are both skilled executives who have contributed significantly to the club. I hold them in high regard both personally and professionally. However, the club's needs have evolved over the past six months. We have initiated the hiring process and hope to make appointments soon, prioritizing quality and fit over speed. Change like this is always challenging, especially when it involves individuals we respect. Nonetheless, we are excited about the opportunity to bring in fresh leadership for this great club."

Cavenagh concluded by affirming that Rohl "will continue to receive all the support he needs."

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