Why Arsenal's Executive Vice Chairman Tim Lewis is parting ways?

Arsenal executive vice-chairman Tim Lewis is leaving the Emirates Stadium as part of a significant boardroom reshuffle after five years at the club. The 62-year-old was a long-time confidant of owner Stan Kroenke and joined the board in 2020 before being promoted in March 2023. The Gunners were not afraid to splash the cash before the summer transfer window shut earlier this month, with Zubimendi, Eze, and Gyokeres being among the big-name acquisitions as more than 250 million was spent on reinforcements.

Tim Lewis Walking Away From Emirates Stadium

It is a shocker at Emirates as Tim Lewis walks away from Arsenal. His departure marks the end of a period in which he became one of the most influential figures at the Emirates, bridging the gap between the Kroenkes and the football side of the operation. During his tenure at the club, he played a crucial role in steering the club through the financial challenges of COVID-19, refinancing the debts, and also strengthening Arsenal's position in the Premier League. He was a key advocate for Mikel Arteta and technical director Edu, helping secure the Spaniard's contract extension in 2022 and supporting the club's recruitment. His departure's timing comes as a surprise, particularly after seeing the signings that Arsenal have made in the summer transfer window this season. His walking away also reflects Josh Kroenke's increased influence to take on a more prominent leadership role alongside his father, Stan.

Who is Going to Replace Tim Lewis?

Arsenal announced that Richard Garlick has been promoted from managing director to chief executive officer with immediate effect. He joined the club in 2021 and has led the executive team for the past year, and will now oversee operations at the highest level. Apart from this, there will be no significant changes to the board. Kroenke Sports representatives Kelly Blaha and Otto Maly will join as non-executive directors, along with long-time KSE advisor Dave Steiner. In addition, Arsenal supporter Ben Winston has been appointed to the board, combining his media expertise with his long-standing connection to the club.

"We are delighted to promote Rich to CEO after an incredibly successful period as Managing Director of Arsenal," co-chair Josh Kroenke said in a statement. "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.”