Garry Cook has stepped down from his role as Birmingham City’s CEO and his position on the club’s board.
The League One club say the decision has been made for “personal reasons” and that the former Manchester City chief executive has agreed to remain on their advisory committee and as a trustee of the club’s foundation.
U.S.-based Knighthead Capital Management LLC completed its takeover of Birmingham in July 2023 with Cook a key figure.
Speaking of Cook’s departure chairman Tom Wagner said: “We thank Garry for everything that he has done during his time as chief executive officer. His passionate leadership and commitment to the club that he has supported from boyhood has been unwavering and his contributions are extensive.
“The instrumental role he played in Knighthead becoming involved in Birmingham City FC should also never be forgotten. We are delighted that he will remain connected to us via the advisory committee and foundation and that both will benefit from his vision and expertise.”
Jeremy Dale will now assume Cook’s role on an interim basis.
“Jeremy has a deep understanding of our vision and culture, and we are confident in his ability to guide Birmingham City during this transition,” Wagner added.
“Our commitment to excellence and progress remains steadfast as we continue to build on the solid foundation we’ve already established.”
Birmingham were relegated in the first season under their new ownership but responded with a lavish summer of spending ahead of this season’s League One campaign with between £20m and £25m spent on new recruits, a record outlay in a single window at that level.
They are currently top of the League One table, two points above second-placed Wycombe Wanders and Wrexham in third.
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