Jim McMahon steps down from Motherwell board after eight years as chairman

Jim McMahon has stepped down from the Motherwell board after eight years as chairman.

McMahon joined the board in 2001 during John Boyle’s tenure and announced in December he intended to retire at the end of last season.

The 75-year-old remained on the board to oversee his push for investment in the club.

That project ended in July with the collapse of a deal that would have handed control of the fan-owned club’s strategy to American husband-and-wife Erik and Courtney Barmack.

The Barmacks withdrew following opposition from Well Society board and amid a ballot that saw 78 per cent of voters rejecting the £1.95million proposal.

McMahon formally stepped down at a board meeting on Wednesday night.

A club statement read: “Being aware of Jim’s impending departure, the club received many heartfelt messages from current and former players, staff and board members over the period of Jim’s tenure.

“One common theme from all the messages was the invaluable professional and personal support he gave to so many individuals.

“He was also commended for never having sought the limelight and the countless hours he dedicated over so many years to help everyone involved with his boyhood club.

“We would like to thank Jim sincerely for his long service and commitment to the club and know he will enjoy more time with his family, especially the grandchildren.”

McMahon said: “Having attended my first Motherwell match in the 1950s and supported the club ever since, I am immensely proud to have served as the club chair for the last eight years.”

McMahon declared that he leaves the club in a “very stable financial position” and added: “I wish the new club chair and board every success in what will be an exciting next chapter for the club.”

The departure leaves a board of four people including chief executive Brian Caldwell and financial director David Lindsay, both of whom were appointed as directors three months ago.

The Well Society representatives on the board are Tom Feely and Douglas Dickie, both of whom backed the Barmack deal. The latter stepped down from the fan-ownership group’s board when a majority of his colleagues declared their opposition.

Further changes to the club board are expected once the Well Society’s own impending election process is completed later in August.