Arsenal’s executive vice-chairman Tim Lewis is preparing to leave his position, creating a major change in the club’s leadership structure.
The news, reported by The Athletic, marks the end of a long period of involvement with the Kroenke family.
A trusted figure within the Kroenke group
Lewis, 62, has been connected with Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke for many years. Between 2007 and 2018, he played a key role in guiding Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) on its investment in the club.
He advised during Kroenke’s first purchase of 9.9 per cent from ITV in 2007, and continued as the American businessman gained majority ownership in 2011.
Lewis was again central when Kroenke assumed complete control in 2018.
Although he originally served in a legal advisory role, his duties grew far beyond that over time. A trusted voice within the ownership group, he became a central figure in Arsenal’s decision-making processes.
His close relationship with manager Mikel Arteta also proved vital, particularly during talks for Arteta’s three-year contract extension in 2022.
Lewis strongly supported financial fair play rules and was instrumental in the club’s ambitious transfer moves.
He worked closely with Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish, which helped Arsenal finalise the £60 million signing of Eberechi Eze in August.
Changes in Arsenal’s board and leadership
Lewis joined the board as a director in September 2020 and was promoted to executive vice-chairman in March 2023.
His upcoming exit means the Kroenke family will push for a greater presence inside the boardroom.
Two more KSE representatives are expected to join, along with Ben Winston, a film director and long-time Arsenal season ticket holder. A long-term advisor is also being added.
Josh Kroenke, 45, has assumed a more prominent role at the club in recent years and will continue to do so. Meanwhile, Richard Garlick will move into the role of Chief Executive Officer.
Garlick first arrived at Arsenal in 2021 after working as the Premier League’s director of football. He later became director of football operations before stepping up when Vinai Venkatesham left last season.
Venkatesham, who served as Arsenal’s CEO, departed in 2024 and has since joined Tottenham Hotspur. His exit created the opening for Garlick to rise into the chief executive position.
Lewis’s decision to leave signals a new era in Arsenal’s leadership, with the Kroenke family tightening their grip on the club’s direction.
