Premier League clubs have approved the appointment of Richard Masters as the Chief Executive with immediate effect. The decision also ends Premier League’s search for a permanent successor of Richard Scudamore, who had stepped down at the league’s CEO in June last year.
Masters had taken the charge from Scudamore as an interim CEO. Three shortlisted candidates, including the Guardian Media Group executive David Pemsel and Discover Media Group’s Susanna Dinnage, had declined to join after initially accepting the offer.
Bruce Buck, Chairman of Chelsea Football Club and Chairman of the Premier League Nominations Committee, said: “Richard took on the role of Interim Chief Executive a year ago. Since then, the clubs have seen Richard rise to the occasion, dealing with our various stakeholders and partners with aplomb and skill.
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“As Interim Chief Executive, he has faced challenges head-on and has proved himself. The clubs believe that this is the right appointment now in the long-term interests of the Premier League.”
“The clubs believe this is the right appointment in the long-term interests of the Premier League”
Commenting on his appointment, Richard said: “I feel privileged to be given the opportunity to lead the Premier League in what will be one of the most exciting stages of its development.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the clubs and our partners and other stakeholders over the past year. This is one of the most incredible jobs in the world of sport and I now look forward to leading the League in the many opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.”
Richard has worked in the sports industry for more than 25 years. He joined the Premier League as Director of Sales and Marketing in 2006 and was promoted to Managing Director in July 2015.
Prior to joining the Premier League, Richard was Commercial Director at the English Football League and before that he worked for the England and Wales Cricket Board.
The Premier League Nominations Committee will now look to appoint a non-executive Chair promptly in the new year.
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