Chelsea have named Ron Gourlay as their new Chief Executive.

Gourlay, who was previously the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the club, will succeed Peter Kenyon.

“It is a huge honour to be offered the chance to lead Chelsea,” said Gourlay.

“We have a fantastic team both on and off the field and those teams can move us onto even greater success in the future.

“To be responsible for that is a fantastic challenge and I will be giving it my total commitment, drive and energy.

“All successful clubs strike the balance between the footballing and commercial sides and my role is to ensure this happens as it is a critical part of our strategy moving forward.

“We have great partners in Samsung, adidas, Etihad and many others.

"Together we will move our relationships onto the next level and develop new and exciting opportunities in other areas and with other companies in key markets around the world.”

Gourlay, 46, has been with Chelsea for five years, in a variety of director level roles culminating in COO before today’s appointment.

He has more than 25 years experience in football having previously undertaken senior roles at Manchester United and Umbro.

Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck said: “Ron was the outstanding candidate for the job.

"It was not necessary to look outside as we had someone with all the necessary attributes inside which was important as it ensures continuity and a smooth transition.

“He has the total support of the board and Roman and both the football and business elements of the club will report to him.

“Ron has been a central figure in the commercial success of Chelsea in recent years and he has excellent operational experience and is thoroughly respected across the football side.

“We are absolutely confident that he can now take us forward into the next stage of our development as a club and business.”

Ron Gourlay football industry CV:

2005-2009: Managing Director (Merchandising); Commercial and Venue Director; Chief Operating Officer; Chief Executive at Chelsea

2000-2005: Commercial Director at Manchester United

1985-2000: Business Development Director; Sales and Marketing Director at Umbro