Gourlay to leave role as Chelsea chief executive

Ron Gourlay is to leave his position as chief executive of Chelsea, the Premier League club have announced.

The 51-year-old has spent the past decade working closely with owner Roman Abramovich at Stamford Bridge.

He served as chief operating officer before being promoted to chief executive in November 2009 following Peter Kenyon's departure.

A club statement read: "Chelsea Football Club announces that Ron Gourlay, after 10 successful years at the club including five as Chief Executive, is leaving Chelsea in order to pursue new business opportunities.

"The club, and in particular the owner and directors, wish to thank Ron for his many years of service to Chelsea and support his desire to seek new challenges. Ron’s efforts have helped the club to achieve its position as one of the leading football clubs in the world."

Gourlay added: ‘It has been a privilege to have played a role in the club’s considerable achievements both on and off the pitch over the last 10 years, but I feel the time is right to move on to other challenges.

"I would like to thank Mr Abramovich, the directors, the manager and players and all the staff for their support during my time at the club, and wish them much continued success in the future."

Source : talksport[dot]com