Liverpool Chief Executive Officer Ian Ayre To Step Down

Ian Ayre will step down from his role as Liverpool chief executive officer at the end of his contract in May 2017. Ayre has been part of the Anfield staff since 2007, when he became commercial director, and he became a member of the board in 2009 before being promoted to managing director two years later. He stepped into the chief executive role in 2013 and played a big part in stabilizing the club after the takeover by Fenway Sports Group in October 2010.

Ayre said in a statement “If becoming chief executive of Liverpool Football Club was the greatest honour of my professional life, then deciding to step down at the end of my current contract is by far the most difficult. Having the privilege to lead this great club comes with huge responsibility and challenge but one which I have relished and I feel proud of my achievements in the role. I believe the end of next season is the right time to pass the CEO baton on to a new person, who will take on the challenges and opportunities with a fresh enthusiasm and vigour. They will do so supported by what I believe to be the best ownership group in world sport and by a truly excellent team of staff throughout the football club. Having been brought up in the shadow of Anfield, I have found it the most profound privilege to serve the club I have supported all my life. The driving principle behind every decision I have taken during my time here has been to do the best for the long-term stability and health of this great football club. In the remaining 15 months I have as CEO, I will continue to provide FSG, Jurgen, the players and all the brilliant staff at Liverpool ongoing strategic leadership and a smooth transition”.

Ayre's contribution to the club has been praised in a statement from principal owner John W. Henry, Chairman Tom Werner and President Mike Gordon, which read: “Ian advised us of his intention to step down as CEO a few months ago. We asked him on several occasions to take some time to reconsider his decision, but have been unable to convince him to remain as CEO beyond May 2017. We will at some point in the near future begin identifying and recruiting a worthy successor to continue to build on the outstanding foundations which have been laid by Ian. Under his leadership, we have seen Liverpool transform from a club that was on the brink of bankruptcy, to one which today enjoys strong financial and operational health. We have always found Ian to be dedicated, honest, passionate and committed to doing the right thing for the long-term interests of the football club.  These fit with our own values as owners and we owe him greatly for the personal sacrifices he has made for the club”.