Jim McMahon has formally resigned from his role as Chairman of Motherwell Football Club at the board meeting held last night (Wednesday 31 July).
Jim has been on the Club Board for over 23 years, serving as Chairman for the last eight of those years, making him the second longest continuous serving Chairman in the Club’s history.
During this time, Jim initiated the discussions with John Boyle about how to move to fan ownership and led the work involved in framing the legal and financial structure of the Society. He was also the first 1886 member.
Being aware of Jim’s impending departure, the Club received many heartfelt messages from current and former players, staff and board members over the period of Jim’s tenure. One common theme from all the messages was the invaluable professional and personal support he gave to so many individuals. He was also commended for never having sought the limelight and the countless hours he dedicated over so many years to help everyone involved with his boyhood Club.
We would like to thank Jim sincerely for his long service and commitment to the Club and know he will enjoy more time with his family, especially the grandchildren.
Jim said:
“Having attended my first Motherwell match in the 1950’s and supported the Club ever since, I am immensely proud to have served as the Club Chair for the last eight years. But as I announced at our AGM it is time for me to stand down from that role.
I have been Chair since the Club moved into fan ownership and have a number of people to thank for their unstinting efforts on behalf of MFC during that period.
My fellow Board members who have operated as a unified group over that time.
Three excellent Chief Executives – Alan, Derek and now Brian who has brought enormous experience and enthusiasm to the role.
I was also fortunate to have marvellous Heads of Department in three key areas – David, Suzanne and Bob are best in class.
And finally, Graham Keys who has been an outstanding Company Secretary.
Thank you all.
Their work has meant that:
- The Club has, in real terms, broken even during fan ownership, which has allowed the Well Society to build up its reserves to over £800k.
- We have made very significant improvements to our pitch, stadium and importantly our training facilities.
- We have retained our Scottish Premiership status, extending that run to 40 years. There was huge pressure to change our manager and back-room staff last season. However, we believed in Stuart and backed that judgement. Lennon Miller extended his contract, and we have just sold Theo Bair for a very significant transfer fee. These have and will bring enormous benefits to the Club, and neither would have happened without Stuart.
- The overall effect of this operational and managerial professionalism has left the Club in a very stable financial position. The combination of income from future player sales and the additional growth and investment promised in the Well Society’s business plan, means the Club has never been in a better place.
I wish the new Club Chair and Board every success in what will be an exciting next chapter for the Club.
My thanks again to all the people I have been proud to work with and who have contributed so much during my time on the Board.”
Jim McMahon