SFA chief executive Stewart Regan announces his resignation

STEWART REGAN has resigned as the chief executive of the Scottish Football Association.

It brings an end to eight years at the helm of the SFA.

In a statement, he said: “I have devoted my time in Scotland to modernising, protecting, developing and promoting the game, whilst facing into some extremely challenging head winds during my time in the job.

“While it has been tough, I am proud to leave having overseen a period of significant change and substantial growth following the McLeish Report in 2010.

“We are now at another staging point and I recognise that it is now time for further change. I have decided to step aside to allow new leadership to take the organisation forward.

“I would like to thank the staff for their energy, hard work and support during my tenure.

“Their love of the game mirrors Scotland’s passion for football and I am proud to have served the Association.”

Regan had come under fire for a number of issues in recent weeks, including the potential move away from Hampden, the failure so far to appoint a new Scotland manager and the decision to take the national team to South America for friendlies this summer.

He has been no stranger to controversy since taking over from Gordon Smith in 2010.

One of his first tasks was to deal with a referee strike after Scotland’s whistlers accused the SFA of failing to back them as they went through a period of intense criticism.

His handling of the Rangers crisis in 2012 also provoked widespread criticism, as did the appointment of Mark Wotte and then Brian McClair as ill-fated performance directors.

Scotland’s continual failure to qualify for major tournaments throughout his time in charge was also a concern for many.

Upon his departure, the SFA have praised his the range of changes he made, including streamlining their committee system, introducing a more transparent and independent disciplinary process, creating a pyramid system, and delivering a new performance strategy.

Regan also leaves the SFA in good financial health, having recorded its highest ever profit in 2017.

Chief Operating Officer, Andrew McKinlay, will manage the day to day business during the interim period while a new CEO is appointed.

Alan McRae, SFA President, said: “I would like to place on record my thanks and appreciation to Stewart for his commitment to Scottish football.

“He has worked tirelessly and has helped drive through a number of improvements to the governance of the game in the country.

“The search for a new Chief Executive will begin immediately as we will continue to drive Scottish football forward on and off the pitch.”