Arsenal announce major update with shock exit and Josh Kroenke revamp plan

Arsenal have announced a major boardroom revamp with Tim Lewis leaving his role as the club’s executive vice-chair, while Richard Garlick has been promoted to chief executive officer

Arsenal has unveiled a significant reshuffle in its boardroom, with long-standing executive vice-chair Tim Lewis stepping down from his role.

Lewis, who has been a trusted advisor to the Kroenke family for nearly 20 years and served Kroenke Sports and Entertainment since 2007, is leaving North London. He joined Arsenal’s board of directors in September 2020 and was promoted to executive vice-chair in March 2023.

Richard Garlick will take over as the club’s CEO, while Kelly Blaha and Otto Maly have been appointed as non-executive directors, joining Dave Steiner, a long-time advisor to KSE.

Ben Winston, a renowned producer and director, has also been named as a non-executive director. Josh Kroenke expressed his delight at these changes, stating: “We are delighted to promote Rich to CEO after an incredibly successful period as Managing Director of Arsenal.”

Kroenke praised Garlick’s contributions: “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.”, reports the Mirror.

He also took the opportunity to thank Lewis for his dedication: “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 been advising Stan Kroenke since 2007 – a period that saw his initial investment into the club. Kroenke bought a 9.9 percent stake from ITV plc in 2007.

Lewis reportedly built a strong bond with current manager Mikel Arteta and played a key role in the Spanish coach signing a new contract in 2022.

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