Tim Lewis Step Downs As Arsenal Executive Vice-Chair In Major Board Reshuffle

Arsenal have made significant changes to their boardroom as executive vice-chair Tim Lewis leaves the club.

Who is Tim Lewis at Arsenal?

Lewis, 62, is a corporate lawyer who has been closely tied to Arsenal’s owners, Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE), since 2007. He became a director of the club in 2020 and was promoted to executive vice-chair in March 2023.

During his time, Lewis developed a reputation as Stan Kroenke’s most trusted advisor in London. He played a central role in the club’s financial restructuring during the Covid-19 pandemic, fought the Kroenkes’ corner on issues of governance and ownership, and was a vocal advocate of financial fair play.

He was also influential in football matters, helping to broker Mikel Arteta’s new three-year contract in 2022 and supporting Arsenal’s ambitious recruitment drive this past summer.

Why is Tim Lewis leaving Arsenal?

The timing of Lewis’ exit has come as a surprise. Only weeks ago, he was part of the triumvirate — alongside sporting director Andrea Berta and Arteta — credited with delivering a strong transfer window, including the £60m signing of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace.

His departure appears tied to the growing influence of Josh Kroenke, who has taken on an increasingly hands-on role at the Emirates in recent years. With Josh stepping up, the club’s board is set for further changes.

Arsenal board changes

As part of the Arsenal board changes, Richard Garlick, currently managing director, will move into the CEO role. Arsenal are also expected to add new members to the board, including two more KSE representatives and long-term advisors.

One of the incoming figures is Ben Winston, the Emmy Award-winning producer and Arsenal season-ticket holder, known for co-founding the Fulwell 73 production company alongside James Corden.

Tim Lewis Arsenal legacy

Lewis leaves behind a mixed but undeniable legacy. On one hand, he was instrumental in refinancing Arsenal’s debt, strengthening ties between football operations and the owners, and ensuring the club remained competitive off the pitch during turbulent times.

On the other, his direct and sometimes abrasive style meant he wasn’t universally popular within the club. Still, his influence stretched from the boardroom to the dressing room, with Arteta and Edu benefitting from his backing during key stages of their projects.

Ultimately, with Lewis stepping aside, the spotlight falls squarely on Josh Kroenke to lead Arsenal’s next chapter.

The reshuffle points to a tighter alignment between KSE and the day-to-day running of the club — a change that could shape Arsenal’s long-term strategy both on and off the pitch.