Everton confirm Bill Kenwright will STAY on as chairman while Farhad Moshiri joins the board

Bill Kenwright will remain as Everton Chairman after major shareholder Farhad Moshiri persuaded him to stay on.

It had seemed likely that Kenwright would step down from the position he has held for more than 20 years when Everton reported 11 days ago that club legend Graeme Sharp, chief executive Denise Barrett-Baxendale and finance officer Grant Ingles were all leaving the club with immediate effect – none of those four have attended a game at Goodison Park since January 4.

Kenwright has become a hugely unpopular figure with large sections of the club’s supporters, many of whom have protested for his immediate removal. The 77-year-old had considered leaving and, previously, there had been a suggestion he could be handed a role as Life President.

However, Moshiri, Everton’s Major Shareholder, has spoken at length with Kenwright since the initial statement was released – fans had been expecting an update sooner, as the club had said an answer would be provided in 48 hours – and now the Iranian billionaire has been able to convince Kenwright to continue.

Everton have appointed Colin Chong to be their new CEO – he is currently overseeing the development of the new Bramley Moore Stadium on Liverpool’s waterfront – while James Maryniak, currently Director of Finance, will take charge of all finance matters as interim Chief Finance Officer.

Everton have made a series of key personnel changes amongst their board of directors

But clarifying what the future holds for Kenwright, Moshiri said: ‘I wanted Bill to remain as our Chairman during this important period of transition for the Club and I am delighted that he has accepted my request to do so. 

Bill’s knowledge and vast experience will be crucial for us as we look to reset, deliver on external investment and position Everton for a successful future.

‘In John (Spellman, who has been added to the Board), we have an experienced finance professional who has held Chief Executive and senior finance roles for international firms and I welcome him to the Club.

‘In Colin and James, we have two experienced senior Club professionals who have agreed to take on enhanced roles on an interim basis, and who we know can and will deliver immediately.’