Arsenal make Richard Garlick announcement as five chiefs given new roles after Tim Lewis exit

Arsenal have confirmed that Richard Garlick has been promoted as the club’s CEO amid a major backroom reshuffle. The Gunners announced that long-serving Tim Lewis had stepped down from his role as executive-chair on Friday morning.

Lewis had been a long-term advisor of the Kroenke family since 2007. And his exit has prompted a major reshuffle behind the scenes.

Garlick, previously the club’s director of football operations and then the club's managing director, has been promoted to CEO. Meanwhile, Kelly Blaha and Otto Maly have both been appointed as non-executive directors.

They have been joined by long-term Kroenke advisor Dave Steiner and producer and director Ben Winston in being appointed as non-executive directors. Winston is an Arsenal season ticket holder.

Explaining the changes, Josh Kroenke said: “We are delighted to promote Rich to CEO after an incredibly successful period as Managing Director of Arsenal. Rich has made an enormous impact on all fronts as we continue to strive to win major trophies, be financially sustainable and put our supporters at the heart of everything.

“At this moment, we would like to thank Tim for his continued dedication and commitment to Arsenal in a period of transformational change for the club. He has played a pivotal role and ensured we are in a great position to continue to deliver our strategy in our ambition to win major trophies.

"In keeping with our desire to always move forward, we will strengthen our Board with some exciting additions who will bring vast experience to the club across a wide range of professions.

“The group know and love Arsenal, and will bring a different skillset and expertise while injecting fresh thinking and energy to support us all to achieve our ambitions.”

Arsenal’s revamp behind the scenes comes after a busy summer and positive start to the season. The Gunners spent around £250m in transforming Mikel Arteta’s playing squad.

Martin Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze, Viktor Gyokeres and Noni Madueke all arrived for big fees. Outgoing chief Lewis played a huge role in Eze’s arrival from Crystal Palace having leaned on his close relationship with Eagles boss Steve Parish.

But Arsenal’s investment appears to have benefitted them with the North London side having won three out of their opening four Premier League games. Arteta’s side will be given a detailed examination this weekend as they take on Manchester City at the Emirates.

Away from the Premier League, Arsenal also enjoyed a positive start to their Champions League campaign mid-week. They beat Spanish side Athletic Bilbao 1-0 in their league stage opener.

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