The Villa Board Takes Shape

Aston Villa announced the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer.

Richard FitzGerald is the new CEO and Robin Russell is the Chief Financial Officer.

At last, we have a professional board once again, one with a CEO and Finance director, things are taking a proper shape so now we can see the difference between running Villa as a top club and running it as a corner shop!

The official site explains: Richard joins from IMG, the sports, entertainment and media group, where he worked for 18 years, lately as Senior Vice President and head of IMG’s New Media International business.

For those that don’t know, IMG – in their own words – is the world’s premier Sports, Entertainment and Media Company Link to their site: Click Here

Richard FitzGerald joins non-exec Bob Kain who also worked for IMG.

Again, the official site explains of our new CEO He has worked extensively in the sports media business including four years based in Cleveland, Ohio.His clients included the F.A. Premier League, KNVB, Manchester United, The Wimbledon Championships and the European Golf Tour.He will join the club effective 1st January 2007.

So he basically knows what he is doing, HURRAH!

And of the new finance director:

Robin Russell joins the club after 12 year’s as Chief Financial Officer of MBNA Europe, the credit card bank specialising in affinity marketing.As CFO, Robin was in charge of financial reporting, treasury and financial planning and analysis at MBNA Europe.He joins the club in a full time capacity as from today.

The Board of Aston Villa have stated: ‘We are delighted to welcome Richard and Robin to lead the business activities at Aston Villa. Both bring proven professional track records, defined most importantly by commitment and integrity. The Villa Directors extend them our warmest welcome.’

So the board is shaping up like this:

Chairman: Randolph Lerner
CEO: Richard FitzGerald
Finance Director: Robin Russell
Operations Director: Steve Stride
Non-Executive Director: General Charles C. Krulak
Non Executive Director: Bob Kain
Non Executive Director: Michael Martin