Key Hearts figure to depart Tynecastle as search for successor begins

Hearts chief executive Andrew McKinlay is stepping down after six years in the role.

McKinlay will formally depart Tynecastle Park at the end of the month with the club set to embark on the search for a successor.

Appointed in August 2020, McKinlay’s tenure included two ventures into the league stages of the UEFA Conference League which each earned more than £5million in revenue.

Hearts CEO Andrew McKinlay, pictured during Sunday's 4-0 win over Dundee United, is leaving his post at the end of the month. (Photo by Mark Scates / SNS Group) | SNS Group

He also welcomed the arrival of Tony Bloom as an investor and partnered with the data-based recruitment firm, Jamestown Analytics. However, there have been regular managerial changes during his time, with five permanent head coaches and two caretakers in charge of the team.

McKinlay sits on the Scottish Football Association board and was appointed vice-president of the governing body earlier this year. He will continue in that role after he leaves Tynecastle. Hearts will appoint a new chief executive in McKinlay’s place.

In a statement issued by the Edinburgh club, chairman Calum Paterson said: “Andrew has served as CEO during a significant period in our history, which has seen considerable progress. On behalf of the board and everyone at Hearts, I would like to thank Andrew for his contribution, commitment and service to the club. He leaves with our best wishes for the future.”

McKinlay said: “It has been an honour to serve as CEO of Hearts. I am proud of all that we have achieved during my time at the club and grateful to have worked alongside so many dedicated colleagues, players, supporters and partners. I wish everyone connected with Hearts every success in the future.”

The statement also confirmed that the process of identifying a new chief executive will begin at Tynecastle. It read: “Heart of Midlothian can confirm that Andrew McKinlay is leaving his position as Chief Executive at the end of this month. Following discussions between the board and Andrew, it has been mutually agreed that he will leave on 31 August. The club expects to commence the process of identifying a new CEO shortly. In the meantime, the chairman will work closely with our executive team to ensure that the club remains fully focused on delivering its priorities across all areas, on and off the pitch.”