Aberdeen announce Alan Burrows as new chief executive

Aberdeen have appointed Alan Burrows as their new chief executive.

The former Motherwell CEO announced he was leaving Fir Park last month after his 15 year involvement with the club which made him the longest serving CEO in the Scottish Premiership.

Under Burrows guidance the Steelmen transitioned to fan ownership, finished third in the Premiership, played European football and reached two domestic cup finals.

Dons' Chairman Dave Cormack has now made the move to bring Burrows to Pittodrie, where he'll start work on 27th February.

Burrows told the club's official website: “It’s a real privilege to be asked to take up the position of chief executive at AFC. I’ve built up a good working relationship with the chairman over the years and was very pleased when he got in touch.

“Aberdeen is an excellent football club with a rich and decorated history and ambitious plans for a successful future.

“When I decided to step down from my role at Motherwell, I was fortunate enough to have a number of clubs make contact with me. However, I was most intrigued by the Aberdeen opportunity, as I think there is so much potential at this club and so many exciting projects already well underway.

“There is much to do, on and off the pitch, and I am excited and eager to work with the many talented staff who I know are in place at Pittodrie. I am also keen to immerse myself as much as I can in the city and with the supporters, so I can best reflect the traditions and expectations of the Dons fanbase.

“I want to place on record my sincere thanks to all my friends and colleagues at Motherwell for fifteen memorable years. I wish the club, the directors, the staff, players and the supporters, who were very good to me, every success in the future.”

Burrows initially joined the Lanarkshire club in a communications role in 2007, before several promotions saw him become the CEO for nine years.

Aberdeen have not had an official CEO since Cormack took over three years ago.

Cormack said: “In taking over as chairman, the intention was always to appoint a chief executive. However, within three months, the COVID pandemic hit and I felt the need to lead the Club through the significant financial challenges that presented. It was also critical that we were patient and found the right individual who knows and understands both football and business.

“Alan has all the experience and qualities you’d look for in a chief executive. He’s got his finger firmly on the pulse of the Scottish game, is well-respected in footballing circles and is fully aligned with the strategy and vision we have to drive Aberdeen FC forward.

“When Alan announced his intention to step down at Motherwell FC we began a dialogue which, I’m delighted to say, has led to his appointment. Alan inherits a strong management team and staff, many of whom he has worked with on SPFL working groups over the years. I’d particularly like to thank Motherwell chairman, Jim McMahon, for his co-operation in ensuring we have been able to agree a smooth transition.”

Burrows first major task will be to help with the appointment of a new manager, after Jim Goodwin was sacked last month following a poor run of results.

Barry Robson is in interim charge of the team.

The club sit 7th in the league and next play on February 18th at Celtic Park.

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