Motherwell media chief Alan Burrows named new CEO

Alan Burrows keeps a close eye as Stuart McCall is interviewed by the BBC. Picture: PA

Burrows, who has won a succession of media relations awards for the club, will take on the role of general manager once Dempster leaves for Hibernian at the end of the month.

In a statement, Burrows said: “Needless to say, it is a huge honour for me to be asked by the board to take up this role at the club.

“I have been a full-time member of staff at Fir Park since September 2007 and have enjoyed some really fantastic times.

“For the majority of that period, I have worked closely with Leeann, I have a good understanding of the club and its needs, whilst working hard to improve my own department at the club.

“Whilst my aim is to keep that continuity, I also have fresh ideas that I feel can help improve not only the club, but the experience for supporters too.”

Dempster added: “Once my own position was clear, the board asked me to work towards recommending a strong successor.

“Alan’s commitment to Motherwell is second to none and he is extremely intelligent, very capable and more than willing to learn - all qualities that will be indispensable. I genuinely wish him and the club every success.”

Motherwell manager Stuart McCall does not believe Dempster’s impending departure will hamper his plans to build for next season.

Speaking before the club announcement, McCall said: “Even at this moment, Leeann is speaking to a couple of lads’ agents. She will be tying deals down and we are hopeful that will done sooner rather than later.”

When asked about his reaction to Tuesday’s announcement about Dempster’s exit, McCall said: “I was shocked and disappointed. I have had a really good working relationship with Leeann, she has let me get on with what I want to do.

“She has always been very supportive. But she will still have the club’s good feelings at heart and she goes with our best wishes.”