Rangers Football Club has appointed lifelong supporter Jim Gillespie as its new chief executive, with the incoming boss pledging to bring sustained success back to Ibrox. The move ends a search that began in November following the departure of previous CEO Patrick Stewart.
A Fan at the Helm: Gillespie's Journey to Ibrox
The club's new chief executive is no stranger to the Glasgow giants, having been a Rangers fan all his life. Interestingly, Gillespie was first approached for the role in 2024, prior to Stewart's appointment, but he declined at that time. His decision was based on concerns over the club's structure under the previous leadership regime.
The opportunity became irresistible when the position reopened under the club's new American owners. Gillespie, who served as St Mirren's vice-chairman from 2021, quickly emerged as the leading candidate. He will formally take up his duties later this season.
Focus on Delivery and Sustainable Success
In his first statement, Gillespie expressed his honour at being asked to lead the historic institution. "I'm thankful to the owners and the board for their confidence," he said, "and I look forward to working closely with them, the staff and all those associated with Rangers."
He immediately set out his stall, emphasising a hands-on approach. "The focus now is on delivery: rolling up our sleeves, setting clear standards and ensuring the organisation is aligned behind sustainable success on the pitch," Gillespie declared.
Club chairman Andrew Cavenagh explained why Gillespie was the unanimous choice after an extensive search across Scotland and Europe. "Jim consistently stood out for his understanding of what Rangers stands for and the standards this club demands," Cavenagh stated. "He impressed us with his ability to lead people, connect with the club and its supporters, and operate at a very high-level day to day."
Fraser Thornton will continue as acting CEO until Gillespie begins his role, after which Thornton will transition to the position of executive director. The club confirmed that strategic direction will continue to be set by the board, with Cavenagh and vice-chairman Paraag Marathe remaining closely involved in major leadership decisions.
Transfer Activity Continues Apace
Meanwhile, Rangers are actively working to strengthen Philippe Clement's squad during the January transfer window. The club remains in talks with German side Wolfsburg over a loan move for Danish international winger Andreas Skov Olsen.
The 26-year-old, who has 40 caps for Denmark, joined Wolfsburg from Club Brugge last year for a fee of approximately £12 million. Rangers are reportedly prepared to pay a seven-figure loan fee, believing Skov Olsen could provide a significant boost to their Scottish Premiership title challenge.
In a further defensive reinforcement, the Ibrox side expect to complete the signing of Belgian left-back Tuur Rommens within the next 48 hours. Outgoing business is also being discussed, with the club in negotiations with Kilmarnock over a potential loan that would see young winger Findlay Curtis spend the rest of the season at Rugby Park.
