WANDERERS say the appointment of David Ray as their new chief executive is a “key step” in the club’s progression.
Bolton-born Ray has worked with Plymouth Argyle for the last five years and will officially start his new post next month (July 23).
The Whites have been without a permanent CEO since Neil Hart moved to MK Dons in September last year, with chief operating officer Phil Mason and chief finance officer Niaz Shazad sharing the duties on an interim basis.
Sharon Brittan confirmed the appointment in a statement on the official website, saying she was delighted to bring Ray to the club.
“We undertook an extremely thorough search to find the right individual to lead the club and David was the standout candidate amongst a very strong field,” the chairman said.
“David’s appointment is another key step on the journey we are on as a football club. His financial expertise and proven business acumen, particularly within a football context, align perfectly with our vision and values. We firmly believe in appointing the right people into the right roles to build a sustainable and successful future for Bolton Wanderers.
“David’s arrival follows the important strategic appointment of Fergal Harkin as Sporting Director. Together, David and Fergal further strengthen our senior leadership team under the guidance of myself and the Board.
“David joins us at an exciting time. We are looking forward to an energetic summer as we prepare for the new season, buoyed by the incredible backing of our supporters, with over 15,000 season tickets already purchased. I know David is eager to jobs”
The recruitment process for a new CEO has been an exhaustive one for Wanderers but Ray’s CV as head of finance at Plymouth has been impressive, with the club gaining promotion to the Championship in 2023 on a relatively low budget.
Ray gained a reputation at Home Park as a personable and approachable character, and one used to the board structure which is now in place at the Toughsheet Stadium, including head coach Steven Schumacher, sporting director Harkin and incoming head of recruitment, Jimmy Dickinson.
He said: “I’m incredibly proud to be joining Bolton Wanderers as CEO. This is a club with a great history and a passionate fanbase and I’m looking forward to playing a key role in this next chapter.
“I’m excited to work with Sharon, the Board, the executive team and all of our staff to take the Club forward together. Everything we do will be about building something sustainable, ambitious and aligned, with the goal of returning Bolton Wanderers to where it belongs.”
