The permanent appointment of Michael Nicholson as Celtic CEO appears to have taken a significant step forward with the publication of Celtic’s annual report for the year to 30 June 2021.
Nicholson stepped up to become acting CEO when Dom McKay’s 72 day reign came to an end, in Ian Bankier’s message in the Report there is no mention of recruiting a replacement.
Despite the pandemic Celtic reported robust financial figures with the sale of Jeremie Frimpong going a long way towards balancing the books.
Since the report dateline the sales of Kris Ajer and Odsonne Edouard have produced another transfer surplus which seems to be the main ambition and theme running through Bankier’s comments alongside some token recognition for the supporters.
In the club’s annual report Bankier states:
Dominic McKay, who was appointed CEO on 1st July 2021 chose to step down on 10th September for personal reasons. I thank Dom for his contribution over the summer and everyone at Celtic wishes him well for the future. Michael Nicholson, Director of Legal and Football Affairs, has been appointed to the Board as acting Chief Executive Officer. Michael carries the confidence of the Board, he is experienced in Celtic, highly regarded in football circles and is a most effective leader of our executive team.
He concludes with:
We look forward to the season ahead with measured confidence in both our footballing prospects and the robustness of our business model. Celtic PLC is directed by a Board of individuals with demonstrable experience both of Celtic and wider business, its operations are managed by an executive team of talented specialists led by our Chief Executive and the executive is supported by a dedicated cast of colleagues who have worked tirelessly for the Club over this most difficult financial year. I thank them all for everything that has been achieved. Celtic is in good hands.
Nicholson was brought to the club by Peter Lawwell in 2013 as club Solicitor and Legal Advisor. Chris Duffy has been promoted into that role giving a further hint that the acting part of Nicholson’s current title could soon be dropped.