Rangers Appoint Jim Gillespie As New Chief Executive Officer

Rangers Football Club has announced the appointment of Jim Gillespie as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Gillespie will be responsible for leading the organisation’s management and all operations in support of the club’s football ambitions.

He brings significant senior leadership experience, having been Chief Executive Officer of Kibble, one of Scotland’s leading social care charities, delivering complex, regulated services for vulnerable children and young people and managing a staff of over 1,000.

He has also served on the board of directors of St Mirren FC since 2020 and became their Vice Chairman in 2021. During his tenure at the club he has contributed to a period of sporting success for the club while strengthening the club’s financial standing.

Rangers’ strategic direction will continue to be set by the Board, with Andrew Cavenagh as Chairman and Paraag Marathe as Vice Chairman staying closely involved in all major aspects of the club’s leadership and decision-making.

Fraser Thornton will continue to serve as acting CEO until Gillespie starts later in the season. After that time, Thornton will assume the duties of Executive Director, maintaining a significant day-to-day presence within the club, leading key stakeholder relationships, and working closely with Gillespie to ensure the Board’s strategy is delivered effectively across the club.

Andrew Cavenagh, said: “We spoke to an exceptional group of candidates across Scotland and Europe, and Jim consistently stood out for his understanding of what Rangers stands for and the standards this club demands.

“He [Gillespie] impressed us with his ability to lead people, connect with the club and its supporters, and operate at a very high-level day to day.

“Jim is a proven leader, and we are confident he will be an outstanding Chief Executive for Rangers.”

Paraag Marathe, added: “Jim brings the leadership, judgement, and operational capability we were looking for at this stage for the club.

“This club already has a strong and aligned leadership group, and Jim is joining it as an important addition.

“We are delighted to welcome Jim and look forward to working closely with him as we move Rangers forward together.”

Speaking of his appointment, Gillespie, said: “Rangers Football Club is a historic institution, and it’s an honour to be asked to contribute to its leadership.

“I’m thankful to the owners and the Board for their confidence, and I look forward to working closely with them, the staff and all those associated with Rangers.

“The focus now is on delivery: rolling up our sleeves, setting clear standards and ensuring the organisation is aligned behind sustainable success on the pitch.”