Alan Archibald backs Ian Maxwell to be SFA success
The Jags boss believes freedom is the key to Maxwell reaching his potential
Last updated 26th Apr 2018
Partick Thistle boss Alan Archibald says Ian Maxwell will be a success as chief executive of the Scottish FA - but only if he's given the freedom to do his job properly.
The Jags' managing director will take up his new role as Stewart Regan's successor at the end of the season after being unveiled by the governing body on Monday.
Ahead of Saturday's trip to St Johnstone in the Premiership, Archibald revealed his "disappointment'' at Maxwell's imminent departure but believes the former St Johnstone, St Mirren and Partick Thistle defender can make it work at Hampden under the right conditions.
"Yes, definitely,'' Archibald said. If he is allowed to do his job right, the way he was here.
"Ian will tell you as well, he worked with a fantastic board here that allowed him to get on with his job, the same way they have done with us (team).
"They very rarely put up any barriers, they are just there for support, help and a bit of direction.
"They have allowed him to make decisions at the club and if he is allowed to do that at the SFA I am sure he will be a success.
"One of Ian's biggest things is his honesty and integrity and the way he goes about his business. He is not biased by any manner of means.
"Even when he is making decisions when on the boards of the SFA or SPFL, his first thought isn't just Partick Thistle, it is the whole of the Scottish game and he will bring that honesty to the role.''
Archibald revealed the close working relationship he has with Maxwell.
He added: "Ian has been at the club a long time and I have worked with him in different capacities, so he will be a miss for the club.
"He has done a fantastic job in every role he has done.
"I have probably spoken to Ian more than I have spoken to my wife in the last five years, it is every day on the phone, even on holiday.
"There is not a day goes by that I am not speaking to him, so it will be a change.''
Thistle beat Hamilton 2-1 in the first of their five post-split fixtures last week and it was their first win in 11 matches.
The Jags are one point ahead of bottom side Ross County, with Archibald hoping his side have taken heart from their victory over Accies.
The former Maryhill defender said: "It was important to get that victory. It was a long two weeks waiting for the fixtures to come out and it was important to win the first one, so hopefully we can build a bit of momentum.
"But that's all it was, one victory, and we have to build on it. We have a lot to do.'