Everton announce changes to board of directors ahead of transition to new board

Everton have announced several key departures as the club makes changes to its board of directors. 

Chief Executive Officer Denise Barrett-Baxendale, Chief Finance and Strategy Officer Grant Ingles and Non-Executive Director Graeme Sharp have all left their roles, the club revealed on Monday. 

The trio were thanked for their ‘tireless efforts’ and assisting Everton with preparation for a transition to a new Board. 

Last month the Toffees entered into an exclusivity agreement with MSP Sports Capital over new investment in the club. 

In a statement on Everton’s official website, the departing directors said: ‘We have all been fully committed during our time here and are disappointed to have made the decision to leave Everton.

Graeme Sharp (second left) and Denise Barrett-Baxendale have both left their roles at the club

‘We have worked tirelessly alongside our Chairman in what has been a challenging period to deliver some of the most significant projects in Everton’s history – projects that will safeguard and sustain the commercial future of the Club for generations to come.

‘We are proud of the commercial growth projects progressed during our time on the Board, including the construction of the Club’s new waterfront stadium. This construction project – the largest currently on site in the UK – is progressing at pace.

‘The Club’s partnership portfolio has also been increased and diversified, reflected in record commercial partnerships and the expansion of our work internationally.

‘In addition to these commercial achievements, we take great pride in the continued growth of the Club’s social programmes and the plans that the Board has put in place for the community-led regeneration scheme at Goodison Park.

‘It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as Directors. We would like to thank everyone who has supported us during our time here. We wish the Club we have loved to serve every success in the future.’

There was also a message of thanks from current chairman Bill Kenwright, whose own future will be confirmed in the next 48 hours – along with any interim appointments. 

The future of Everton chairman Bill Kenwright is set to be announced in the next 48 hours 

Kenwright said: ‘This has been a great Board who have all worked tirelessly for the Club, no matter what the circumstances. 

‘My relationship with Denise has been known as one of the closest in football. I thank her for her many achievements, particularly her magnificent work in respect of our new stadium.’ 

Everton finished 17th in the Premier League last season, securing their Premier League survival on the final day of the campaign with a 1-0 win over Bournemouth.