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Magpies announce reshuffle after Mort exit

17/06/2008

Newcastle United have announced a new-look executive management team for next season following the resignation of chairman Chris Mort.

Mort has stepped down after 12 months in the job, which he originally took on a short-term basis as part of owner Mike Ashley's takeover of the club.

The reshuffle sees deputy chairman Derek Llambias given the new title of managing director.

And he will head up the St James' Park boardroom, which will feature executive director of operations David Williamson and executive director of football Dennis Wise.

Llambias said: "Since coming to work at Newcastle United I have quickly begun to appreciate the passion people have for the football club.

"I firmly believe we have the right people with the right expertise, with Kevin Keegan back as manager and being fully supported by Mike Ashley and the directors, to take the club forward again.

"At the same time, I'd like to pay tribute to all of the hard work done by Chris during his time at St James' Park and wish him every success for the future."

In stepping down, Mort will return to his work as a partner with London law firm Freshfields.

And he said he had made the decision to leave the club as "the time feels right" for a change.

"I've enjoyed my time immensely as chairman of Newcastle United," he commented.

"From the moment I arrived in the north-east, I received the warmest of welcomes and I must thank the people of Newcastle for that.

"Having experienced the unique atmosphere generated at St James' Park on matchdays, and also by the Newcastle United supporters on our travels away, I look forward to supporting the team next season and will continue to get to as many matches as I can."