Arsenal Board Vice-Chair Lewis Departs in Restructure

Arsenal's executive vice-chair, Tim Lewis, has left the club as part of a board restructuring, with Richard Garlick appointed as the new chief executive officer. Lewis, who has been with the Kroenke Sports and Entertainment (KSE) group since 2007, became an Arsenal director in 2020 and then the executive vice-chair in 2023.

Stan Kroenke, an American businessman, acquired a stake in Arsenal in 2007 and became the majority shareholder in 2011, eventually owning 100% of the club in 2018. In 2023, Stan and his son Josh Kroenke became co-chairs in the latest board reshuffle.

Josh Kroenke, who has been more involved in the club recently, has been seen at games this season and attended the PFA Awards with squad members. He expressed gratitude to Tim Lewis for his dedication during a period of significant change at Arsenal, praising Lewis for his role in positioning the club for success.

Arsenal has announced the appointment of KSE's Kelly Blaha and Otto Maly as non-executive directors, along with long-time KSE advisor Dave Steiner. The club stated that these additions will enhance the expertise within the KSE family and strengthen Arsenal. Additionally, film producer Ben Winston, a long-time Arsenal season ticket holder, will join the board as a non-executive director. Winston is the son of scientist Baron Robert Winston.

Richard Garlick, who joined Arsenal in 2021 as director of football operations and has been the managing director for the past year, will now assume the role of chief executive officer. Tim Lewis' departure, following a successful summer in the transfer market where he played a key role, has come as a surprise. Lewis, known for his advocacy of financial fair play, has been instrumental in the club's recent activities and has a close relationship with manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta.

Lewis, a lawyer, is respected for his contributions to Arsenal and his outspoken nature. The boardroom changes reflect a new direction for the club, mirroring the transformations happening on the field.