Friday 24 April 2020 13:12, UK
Banker Gary Hoffman has been named as the new chairman of the Premier League.
The 59-year old, who is presently chairman of Coventry Building Society and Hastings Insurance, will take over from interim chair Claudia Arney on 1 June after shareholders voted unanimously in favour of his appointment at a teleconference meeting.
Hoffman, the former vice-chairman of Barclays, has built a reputation as a steady hand and is renowned for steering Northern Rock through its emergency bailout during the 2008 financial crisis.
He said: "Football has been central to my life as a fan, an administrator and in my business career, so it is an honour to join the Premier League as Chair.
"During my time at the Football Foundation, I saw how the growth of the Premier League, to become the world's most-watched sporting competition, helped it play an increasingly pivotal role in communities across the country.
"Now everyone in football, at home and abroad, is coming together to support one another through the COVID-19 pandemic. I am convinced this spirit of togetherness will help the game we cherish, and the Premier League, endure long into the future."
Bruce Buck, chairman of Chelsea and chairman of the Premier League Nominations Committee, said: "Gary was the outstanding candidate in an extensive and highly competitive search process, and we believe he will form a strong partnership with our Chief Executive Richard Masters, helping to guide the League while promoting new ideas and strategies.
"Gary has proved over decades, as an executive and a board leader, that he has the character to steer world-renowned organisations through both good times and crisis situations.
"At a vital moment in our history, Gary's knowledge and skills are sure to help us through this very difficult period.
"The Committee and all of the clubs would like to thank Claudia Arney for her superb work and dedication as Interim Chair through this very difficult time. She has guided the League with amazing dedication and hard work. We are extremely grateful for all she has done."
Former executive chairman Richard Scudamore stepped down from his position in November 2018 after 19 years at the organisation.
Hoffman's first task will be to guide the top-flight clubs through the shutdown during the coronavirus crisis - and how best to finish, if possible, the 2019-2020 season.
Richard Masters will continue in his role as the league's chief executive.
