One of the main men behind Brighton & Hove Albion’s move to The Amex has announced he will retire in 2014 and is stepping down from his role as chief executive.
Martin Perry was integral to Seagulls fight for a new stadium and is considered by most supporters to have been every bit as important as former chairman Dick Knight in firstly bringing the club back home to Brighton, and then making sure it survived the turbulent years at Withdean.
As chief executive he was key in the planning of the club’s £93million stadium at Falmer and he will remain at the Albion until he has successfully seen through another of the Albion’s key projects – a new training ground and academy.
His new title will be executive director and he will also remain as CEO of the Community Stadium Limited.
Derek Chapman will temporarily fill the role of Brighton CEO until a replacement can be found and be in control of the day-to-day running of the club.
A spokesman for the Albion said today, “Martin’s personal contribution to the club has been enormous over the last 15 years and we would not be where we are without him.”
Elsewhere in the unexpected behind the scenes reshuffle, current managing director Ken Brown has parted company with the Albion with immediate effect.
The spokesman continued, “Ken Brown is leaving his role as managing director to pursue his career elsewhere. The club’s board of directors would like to thank Ken for all his work and commitment over the last four years and wish him every success going forward.”
Robert Comer has also stood down as Albion’s finance director and will be replaced by David Jones but remain on the board.