Walsall appoint new chief executive

Walsall have today unveiled Stefan Gamble as their new chief executive.

The Saddlers' financial director succeeds Roy Whalley with immediate effect with Whalley continuing as commercial director.

Assistant club secretary Dan Mole also takes over as secretary in changes which have been planned for two years.

Gamble, a board member for three years, said: "It's a very exciting time and a great opportunity to take the club forward. I'll be responsible for the majority of decisions which go on here. It's been building for two years and it will now rest on my shoulders.

"This represents a real opportunity to build on the sound foundations already in place at the club and to introduce fresh new energy and ideas to play a key role in taking the club forward. To do this we need to continue to strengthen both on and off the field as well as increasing our supporter base.

"I am honoured to be appointed as chief executive."

Gamble moved to the club from accountants BDO Stoy Hayward in 2002 and was appointed financial director in 2007 and the 35-year-old says he will strive to bring in new investment.

He said: "That role will still remain mainly with Roy in his new capacity. It's a job in itself.

"Roy has fantastic contacts and he'll be able to dedicate all of his time to it. I also hope to bring in some new investment and new associations."

Whalley joined the Saddlers in 1986 and has worked as secretary, commercial director and chief executive in his time at the Banks's Stadium.

"I joined the club at an interesting time, becoming secretary, becoming chief executive and a member of the board," he said.

"Having done it for a quarter of a century the plan is to gradually withdraw in the belief it is a stronger club now than when I joined – it's certainly a different club.

"Dan and Stef are in their 30s, I was 39 when I started and they have new ideas that will become apparent to supporters.

"These changes will enable me to concentrate on my role as commercial director. That income is vital to the club and a lot of hard work is required if to increase our off-the-field revenue."