FA nominate David Bernstein

The FA Board has nominated David Bernstein to be the new Chairman of The Football Association.

Mr Bernstein was recommended by the Nominations Committee – chaired by Phil Gartside and consisting of Michael Game, Tony Kleanthous and John Ward. This nomination was approved unanimously by The Board today and The FA Council will be asked to endorse this appointment at its meeting on 25 January 2011.

David Bernstein, aged 67, was on the board of Manchester City FC for nine years, five of them as Chairman. During this time the club returned to the Premier League and David led the negotiations which delivered a new stadium for the club. He is a chartered accountant with a long career in business, sitting on the Boards of several public companies including the French Connection Group Plc, Ted Baker Plc and Blacks Leisure Plc, where he has been Chairman since 1996. Since 2003 he has been a Director of Wembley Stadium and has been Chairman since 2008. He is also President of the National Association of Disabled Supporters.

Acting Chairman Roger Burden said: “The Board was united in its view that David would make an excellent choice as Chairman of the organisation. I have worked with David for some years and have always been impressed by his professionalism and integrity.”

“We look forward to working with David to take The FA forward in the best interests of football at all levels across the country.”

Nominations Committee Chairman Phil Gartside said: “David was the outstanding candidate for the role. He combines strong business and leadership skills with tremendous insight and knowledge of football.”

FA General Secretary Alex Horne added: “I very much look forward to working with David and together focussing on the priorities for the development of English football. We have a busy year ahead with work starting on St George’s Park, the launch of the Women’s Super League, England men’s and women’s teams competing in major competitions at a variety of age groups and a drive to implement the recommendations of our review into international player development.”

Mr Bernstein said: “I am honoured to be asked to take on the role as Chairman of The FA. It is a tremendous challenge but I look forward to working with the Board, the staff at The FA and everyone in football from local playing fields to Wembley and the international stage. ”