Topping says he has a first-hand knowledge of sport

The new chairman of the Scottish Premier League is taking on the role while still doing his full-time job running a bookmaking firm.

Ralph Topping has been announced as the new non-executive chairman, replacing Lex Gold, who stepped down on Thursday.

Topping will continue his role as chief executive at William Hill.

"I am very excited to be joining the SPL in a role that marries three of my greatest passions - business, Scotland and football," said the 58-year-old.

"I've spent many afternoons on the terraces and in the stands across Scotland over the years and I am confident that this first-hand knowledge of the sport, together with my Scottish background, will allow me to successfully contribute to the SPL's development.

"I'm looking forward to working with the wider board, the management team and the clubs to continue to cultivate the Scottish game."

Gold, who had combined the role with that of chief executive in recent years, stepped down from the post at Thursday's general meeting and looked back at more than a decade in the role.

I would like to thank Lex for his immense contribution to the Scottish Premier League SPL director Rod Petrie

"It has been a privilege to serve the SPL for over 10 years," said the 68-year-old.

"I am most grateful to all board members with whom I have had the pleasure to work and for all the support, advice and friendship that I have enjoyed from the member clubs and SPL staff during my time as chairman.

"Much has been achieved. But much more remains to be done.

"In that context, it is reassuring to know that, with the recent appointment of Neil Doncaster as chief executive and the appointment today of Ralph Topping as chairman, the SPL will be in good hands.

"As I step down, I wish the SPL and all its member clubs every possible future success and look forward to watching the top level of our national game flourish in the coming years."

Rod Petrie, SPL board director and chairman of Gold's former club, Hibernian, praised the departing official.

"On behalf of the board and, more particularly, on behalf of all member clubs, I would like to thank Lex for his immense contribution to the Scottish Premier League," said Petrie.

"Lex has led the top flight of Scottish football with distinction and overseen a number of developments which have been important, not just for member clubs but for all supporters of the game.

"Lex deserves everyone's thanks for the dignified way in which he has conducted SPL business and he leaves with our very best wishes."

Topping is responsible for strategic direction and the day-to-day management and profitability of William Hill's group operations.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version