Rangers Football Club has announced the appointment of Patrick Stewart as its new chief executive officer from December 16.

Stewart joins Rangers having most recently been interim CEO at Manchester United.

Stewart spent 18 years at Old Trafford.

Raised in Aberdeen, Stewart graduated from the University of Glasgow and worked initially as a lawyer in Scotland before joining TEAM Marketing, the agency responsible for UEFA club competitions, in 2001.

He then moved to Manchester United in 2006 as General Counsel and Company Secretary, and had responsibility for all legal and regulatory matters, with his role evolving to include commercial and operational matters.

In 2019, Stewart joined the board of Manchester United, with further responsibilities including negotiating player contracts and co-leading on the creation of their professional women’s team.

In 2022, he became an executive director of Manchester United’s New York Stock Exchange-listed parent and his role grew further to include managing the club’s relationships with the English FA, the English Premier League and UEFA.

“In 2023, Patrick assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer and oversaw the completion of a material investment transaction, successfully integrating new shareholders and directors into the club and delivering operational stability during the period of transition,” said Rangers.

“Patrick has been a member of various working groups within the FA, the Premier League and the European Club Association, and has also presided over a variety of international sports disputes as an arbitrator for the Court of Arbitration for Sport.”

Rangers’ interim chairman John Gilligan said: “On behalf of the board, I’m delighted to welcome Patrick to the club as CEO.

“Patrick comes with an excellent reputation and background, bringing extensive experience of operating at senior levels during his 20-plus years in football.

“The board continues in discussions with several excellent candidates for the role of Chairperson and expect to make an announcement of an appointment in the coming weeks.”