Key Takeaways:
- Arsenal have announced the departure of executive vice-chair Tim Lewis in a significant boardroom reshuffle
- Managing director Richard Garlick is set to assume the role of CEO as part of the leadership changes
- The board will expand with two additional KSE representatives and film producer Ben Winston joining
Major Boardroom Changes at Arsenal
Arsenal have confirmed that Tim Lewis, the club’s executive vice-chair, will step down from his role following a substantial restructuring of the board. The 62-year-old, a seasoned corporate lawyer, has maintained a close connection with the club’s ownership, particularly Stan Kroenke, for many years. His influential involvement with Kroenke Sports and Entertainment (KSE) began in 2007, later leading to his appointment as Arsenal director in September 2020 and subsequent promotion in March 2023.
New Leadership Structure Unveiled
Josh Kroenke, aged 45, has been increasingly involved in the club’s affairs and will remain a central figure moving forward. In a pivotal move, Arsenal’s managing director Richard Garlick will ascend to the role of chief executive officer. The restructuring will also include two additional KSE representatives joining the Arsenal board, aiming to further intertwine the Kroenke family with the north London club. Additionally, Ben Winston, a film producer and director, is set to bolster the board’s expertise.
We are delighted to announce that our Managing Director, Richard Garlick will become Arsenal’s Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect.
Read more about our Leadership and Board update 👇
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) September 19, 2025
Lewis’s Contributions and Influence
During his tenure, Tim Lewis provided strategic guidance during critical periods, notably assisting the club through the Covid-19 pandemic. He has also emerged as a prominent voice at Premier League level, spearheading efforts with other clubs to oppose takeovers heavily tied to nation-state interests. Lewis has been instrumental in managing relationships within the club, including his influential role in securing manager Mikel Arteta’s contract extension for three years in 2022.
Official Statements and Board Expansion
Josh Kroenke said: “We are delighted to promote Rich to CEO after an incredibly successful period as Managing Director of Arsenal.
Rich has made an enormous impact on all fronts as we continue to strive to win major trophies, be financially sustainable and put our supporters at the heart of everything.
At this moment, we would like to thank Tim for his continued dedication and commitment to Arsenal in a period of transformational change for the club. He has played a pivotal role and ensured we are in a great position to continue to deliver our strategy in our ambition to win major trophies.
In keeping with our desire to always move forward, we will strengthen our Board with some exciting additions who will bring vast experience to the club across a wide range of professions.
The group know and love Arsenal, and will bring a different skillset and expertise while injecting fresh thinking and energy to support us all to achieve our ambitions.”
Arsenal Boardroom Transition – At a Glance
| Name | Previous Role | New Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tim Lewis | Executive Vice-Chair | Leaving Board | Advisor to KSE since 2007, Arsenal director since September 2020, promoted in March 2023 |
| Richard Garlick | Managing Director | Chief Executive Officer | Promotion as part of the new leadership structure |
| Two KSE Representatives | – | Board Members | Joining to strengthen family involvement at Arsenal |
| Ben Winston | Film Producer/Director | Board Member | New addition bringing media expertise |
