St Mirren vice-chairman Jim Gillespie has re-emerged as a strong candidate to become the next chief executive of Rangers Football Club. This development comes 18 months after he initially removed himself from consideration for the prestigious Ibrox role.
Second Chance for Gillespie
The 47-year-old executive held extensive talks with the Rangers hierarchy in August 2024 following the sudden departure of James Bisgrove to Saudi Arabia. Despite those discussions, Gillespie ultimately stepped back from the process at that time. The club's board subsequently appointed Patrick Stewart to the position.
However, the landscape changed dramatically in November when the club's new American owners dismissed Stewart alongside sporting director Kevin Thelwell. This action created a fresh vacancy at the top of the club's executive structure, prompting a renewed search.
Thorough Interview Process Underway
Rangers have conducted a detailed interview process to identify the right candidate. Following this rigorous assessment, Jim Gillespie is now believed to be firmly back in the club's thoughts for the chief executive role. His credentials extend beyond his ongoing involvement with St Mirren.
Gillespie has built a significant reputation through his work as CEO of the prominent children's charity, the Kibble. This experience in leading a major organisation is viewed as highly relevant to the demands of running a club of Rangers' stature.
Interim Leadership in Place
While the search for a permanent successor continues, Rangers have turned to a familiar face to provide stability. Former chairman Fraser Thornton has been appointed to fill the chief executive role on an interim basis. This allows the club's ownership to take the necessary time to secure their preferred long-term candidate without leaving a leadership vacuum.
The situation highlights the ongoing strategic shifts at Ibrox under its new ownership, with the appointment of a permanent CEO seen as a crucial next step in shaping the club's future direction both on and off the pitch.
