New Celtic chief unveiled

Peter Lawwell poses with Martin O'Neill and Brian Quinn

Celtic have appointed businessman Peter Lawwell as their new executive director, head of operations, replacing former chief executive Ian McLeod.

And lifelong Celtic fan Lawwell, currently working with Clydeport, has described it as his dream job.

The 44-year-old, who had a spell at the club as financial controller in for a year from 1990, will be in charge of all non-footballing matters and becomes the link between the manager and the plc board, who control the club's finances.

Lawwell told the club's official website: "This is a job I have coveted for many years and I can't wait to get started.

"From my previous time at Celtic, I have a true appreciation of the demands which will be placed upon me in my new role and I'm relishing the opportunity.

We are delighted to have secured someone of Peter's proven ability Celtic plc chairman Brian Quinn

"The success of Celtic plc depends to an enormous degree upon the team's success on the pitch.

"One of my key roles will be to work closely with Martin O'Neill and ensure that he has every possible support to help deliver the winning performances that everyone wants to see, from the fans and the players to the staff and the investors."

O'Neill had been given a say in the appointment and will be hoping that the new man will help loosen purse strings that have not been opened for any new signings this seen in the face of an £18m debt.

"Peter's commitment to Celtic is clear and I am sure that he will make an extremely valuable contribution to helping the club achieve its goals," said the team boss.

Celtic plc chairman Brian Quinn explained why it had taken so long to replace McLeod.

"We made it clear when we started this process that we would take our time to ensure we got the right person," he said.

"Therefore, we are delighted to have secured someone of Peter's proven ability.

"His business pedigree, coupled with his vision for the club and obvious passion for Celtic, made him the outstanding candidate."

Celtic announced to the Stock Exchange that Lawwell will take up his position on 1 November.

Financial director Eric Riley, who had assumed temporary responsibility for these functions, will revert to his normal duties when Lawwell takes up his post.

Following a spell as chief executive of Scottish Coal, Lawwell took up his current position of commercial director with ports and property company Clydeport in 2000.

Predecessor McLeod stood down in April, when the initial period of his contract expired.

Although Celtic insisted the the departure was an amicable one, it came at a time when McLeod was forced to back down over a challenge made to the date of the final Old Firm match last season.

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