Who is Patrick Stewart as Aberdeen lawyer named new Rangers CEO
An Aberdeen-born lawyer has been named the new CEO of Rangers FC after leaving his role at Manchester United.
Patrick Stewart replaced Richard Arnold at Old Trafford after the latter stepped down from the top job less than two years into his tenure.
His latest appointment ends Rangers' search for James Bisgrove's successor, six months after he left the club for a move to the Saudi Pro League.
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Aberdeen-born Stewart spent almost two decades and had a stint as interim chief executive with Manchester United, having been employed by the club in 2006.
He was named chief legal officer and general counsel, often working directly with legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Prior to his role in football, Mr Stewart, a former Aberdeen Grammar School pupil, worked with Scottish legal firms W & J Burness and Maclay, Murray & Spens.
A stint with TEAM Marketing in Switzerland followed, negotiating sponsorship and television rights for the Champions League.
But now he will take on the role at Ibrox on a permanent basis as Rangers look to restructure off the park, with Greenock-born Tory Peer Malcolm Offord expected to be named chairman.
The Glasgow University graduate and former lawyer will officially start his new role on December 16, the day after Rangers take on Celtic in the Premier Sports Cup final.
He is jumping straight into the job at the deep end as he has to deal with the mounting pressure over boss Philippe Clement with the team sitting third in the Scottish Premiership trailing Aberdeen by eight points and leaders Celtic by 11.
The club also recently posted a £17.2million loss and efforts to cut costs and reduce the wage bill appear to have taken a toll on the team.
Interim chairman John Gilligan said: "On behalf of the board, I’m delighted to welcome Patrick to the club as CEO. Patrick comes with an excellent reputation and background, bringing extensive experience of operating at senior levels during his 20-plus years in football.
“The board continues in discussions with several excellent candidates for the role of chairperson and expect to make an announcement of an appointment in the coming weeks.”