Birmingham City confirm key appointment as club stalwart steps up

Birmingham City have confirmed the appointment of Ian Dutton as their new Managing Director following a series of protests by fans.

The 37-year-old steps up into his new role after spending the last 15 years working across a number of positions within the Blues hierarchy.

After joining the club in 2007, working heavily within the commercial sales department, the former City season ticket holder progressed into a key role as Chief Commercial Officer.

He will now take up his new position with immediate affect and will oversee a wide-ranging list of responsibilities within the club as he effectively replaces Xuandong Ren, who stepped down as Chief Executive in May 2021.

“I have always said it is a sleeping giant that needs awakening”

Speaking to the club website, Dutton described the club as “a sleeping giant that needs awakening” and revealed his pride at taking up such a key position.

He said: “I am honoured and privileged. I have worked here now for 15 years I have seen some ups and downs, some u-turns along the way but I have enjoyed every single minute of it.

“This is a huge club. I have always said it is a sleeping giant that needs awakening and I truly believe that.

“I just want to make the supporters proud, as does everyone else involved here. And I am damn sure we are going to have a good go at it going forward, that’s for sure.

“This particular role is purely the business side of the Football Club, so everything (in terms of) day-to-day operations.”

“It is to come up with a proper plan and a process we can deliver”

Dutton is also determined to repair the relationship between the club and their supporters.

Tensions remain high following recent protests against current owners Birmingham Sports Holdings with supporters left unhappy with the uncertainty surrounding the group.

Dutton is keen to address the issues but admitted it will take “a lot of hard work” before that is achieved.

He said: “We know, as a Club, we have to improve our communication to supporters and work in that area has already begun.

“Repairing and reopening the lower tiers is a top priority for the Club but we are also looking at additional ways to overhaul the entire matchday experience for our supporters.

“It will be a lot of hard work first and foremost. I think it comes back to a plan and a strategy and understanding the underlying issues and concerns and to where we are in each of these areas.

“It is to come up with a proper plan and a process we can deliver. I think it is fair to say that we haven’t had that in recent years and it’s time to change now.”

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