Simon Wilson to step down as Stockport County CEO

Stockport County CEO, Simon Wilson, has announced he will step down from his role at the club after six successful seasons in the role.

Wilson joined the club in March 2020 when Stockport County was in the National League, and, alongside owner Mark Stott, built its seven-year plan to reach the Championship. During this time, the club have risen to become a regular competitor at the top off League One, and are aiming for the second consecutive play-off campaign and secure promotion.

From the outset, it was agreed between owner Mark Stott and Wilson that they would review its position after six years with a view to what the long-term future held for all parties. Following those discussions, it has been mutually agreed that with the main growth phase of the club completed, the next chapter would be focused on long-term sustainability.

This move is supported by a squad built with significant assets, a maturing academy, record attendance levels and revenues, increased community impact and a strong pipeline of talented staff across the organisation. The pair believe that the foundations are now firmly in place for continued success by the talented team of staff in place at the club.

After stepping down, Wilson has been invited to serve as an advisor to Stott Capital’s investments in football, providing advice to the leadership team and mentorship to key individuals.

Stockport County’s Owner, Mark Stott, said:

“It’s on record that I would not have bought the club if I hadn’t met Simon, and it’s clear how much progress has been made over the past six years. When we wrote the plan, we said we would see where we are after the sixth season. We both feel the major work has been done in setting the club up, and the next decade will be about capitalising on that. Simon felt that it might be the right time to step back from his day-to-day role to allow others to step up, and while I did ask him to consider staying, I am happy about where we have got to.

“He’s played a huge role in getting the club to where it is today, and I’m pleased he will continue to support me through Stott Capital and by mentoring key people within my investments.”

Simon Wilson said:

“When I joined, we set out on a clear long-term plan, and I’m proud that we’ve delivered on what we said we would and put the club in a strong position.

“This has been the best thing I’ve ever done in my career. The last 18 months, stepping into both CEO and Director of Football roles, have been particularly intense but hugely rewarding as I’ve seen the club mature further and sit on the cusp of the Championship.

“We always said we’d take stock around this point, and I feel now is the right moment for me to step back and allow the club to move into its next phase.

“The most important thing is that the club is now in a position of real strength. The structures are in place, there’s a clear way of working, and there are talented people throughout the organisation who will drive things forward.

“This isn’t the end of my connection—I’ll continue to support Mark through Stott Capital’s sports investments and by working with some of the emerging leaders within the group.

“There are so many people to thank for their support over my journey here at County. It’s been a truly special ride. To all the players, staff and supporters – from me and my family – thank you for the last six years, you have been a huge part of our lives and we will never forget how you have made us feel.”