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Clubs vote to change structure of Premier League Board

Image: Richard Scudamore: Chief executive of the Premier League

Premier League clubs have voted unanimously to change the structure of the Premier League Board to consist of two independent non-executive directors and an executive chairman.

Claudia Arney and Kevin Beeston have been appointed as the independent non-executive directors, with Richard Scudamore taking up the position of executive chairman

The process was conducted, in consultation with the 20 member clubs, by the Premier League’s Nominations Committee comprising Bruce Buck, Peter Coates, Ellis Short and John Williams. The changes will come into effect from the next Premier League Annual General Meeting which will take place in June.

The committee released a statement saying: “This is a shift in the governance and accountability of the Premier League, one that will ensure the highest standards are maintained as the competition moves into a new phase where the demands and scrutiny placed on the business will reach new heights.

“The introduction of two independent non-executive directors, particularly with two such impressive individuals in Claudia and Kevin, will strengthen the strategic leadership of the league while adding new perspectives gained from their experiences that will serve the clubs and the executive well.

“Richard’s leadership skills within the Premier League and beyond are well-known and respected. He has done an excellent job and this new role, combined with the guidance and expertise Claudia and Kevin will bring, allows him to lead the Premier League into an exciting and challenging period.

“The clubs owe enormous thanks to Peter McCormick for his diligence while serving as acting-chairman.  His experience and wise counsel will remain of benefit to the clubs, including in his continuing role as chairman of the league’s Legal Advisory Group.”

Richard Scudamore said: “During my 15 years as chief executive the Premier League has not only grown as a football competition that is of huge interest to fans, broadcasters and sponsors alike, it has always sought, with the full support of member clubs, to meet high standards of governance.

“Today’s decision by the clubs has to be seen as a step-change in our governance structures that is in line with that growth.

“Claudia and Kevin have a range and level of experience and perspective that will challenge me and the executive to reach new heights in how we run the competition and the business for our member clubs, while helping set the Premier League’s future strategy and development.”

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