The English Football League (EFL) has today named former footballer Trevor Birch as its new Chief Executive.
The 62-year-old chartered accountant, who previously held the same title at Chelsea, Leeds United, Sheffield United and Derby County, will take up the new role on 1 January, leaving his post as Director of Football Operations at Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur.
He takes over from David Baldwin, who joined the EFL in the summer before resigning in October after just four months, stepping down due to his own personal circumstances.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of Spurs, however the opportunity to play a role in the EFL at such a crucial time is one I couldn’t turn down,” the newly appointed Birch explained.
“There is a big job to be done dealing with the effect of the pandemic, together with participating in discussions on the future structure of football and I hope I can make a meaningful contribution to that process.”
Liverpool-born Birch began his playing career with his hometown club, the Reds, before signing for Shrewsbury Town and Chester in the 1980s. He retired in 1988 and moved into professional services. He joined the Spurs board in September 2020, a position he held for 15 months.
He will work closely with the Chairman of the governing body for the three divisions below the Premier League, Rick Parry, who joined the organisation in 2019.
Parry added: “I am delighted to be able to welcome Trevor Birch to the EFL. Trevor’s vast experience has impressed me throughout our discussions in regards to the role, and having been a strong candidate in 2019 before withdrawing from the process, I am delighted that he has opted to take up the position and is able to join the league so promptly.
“I thank Daniel Levy [Tottenham Hotspur Chairman] for his understanding in this respect.
“I have known Trevor for many years and value the knowledge and expertise he has accumulated working with notable clubs at all levels of the game including a number of clubs in financial distress.
“I have no doubt that his acumen and experience will prove valuable for the EFL as we look to navigate our way out of the unprecedented set of circumstances presented to us by COVID-19 alongside considering the challenges of future reform to the pyramid as we look to develop long-term sustainability in the EFL.”
It has been a turbulent year for the EFL, which finally agreed upon a bailout package worth £250 million with the Premier League last week, consisting of £200 million in loans and a £50 million grant for League One and Two clubs.
The sum will ensure that no Championship, League One or Two club goes out of business during the pandemic
