Patrick Stewart is the new chief executive of Rangers, the club has confirmed.

The Scottish Premiership side has made the announcement this morning.

The former interim CEO of Manchester United has finally filled the position vacated by James Bisgrove in the summer after he jumped ship to move to Saudi Arabia.

He will begin his role on Monday, December 16, the club said in a statement. 

Interim Chairman, John Gilligan, commented: “On behalf of the board, I’m delighted to welcome Patrick to the club as CEO.

“Patrick comes with an excellent reputation and background, bringing extensive experience of operating at senior levels during his 20-plus years in football.

“The board continues in discussions with several excellent candidates for the role of Chairperson and expect to make an announcement of an appointment in the coming weeks.”

Raised in Aberdeen, Stewart graduated from the University of Glasgow, and worked initially as a lawyer in Scotland before joining TEAM Marketing, the agency responsible for UEFA club competitions, in 2001.

He then moved to Manchester United in 2006 as General Counsel and Company Secretary, and had responsibility for all legal and regulatory matters, with his role evolving to include commercial and operational matters.

In 2019, Stewart joined the board of Manchester United, with further responsibilities including negotiating player contracts and co-leading on the creation of their professional women’s team.

In 2022, he became an Executive Director of United’s New York Stock Exchange-listed parent and his role grew further to include managing the club’s relationships with the FA, the Premier League and UEFA.

In 2023, Stewart assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer and oversaw the completion of a material investment transaction, successfully integrating new shareholders and directors into the club and delivering operational stability during the period of transition.

More to follow.