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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Aidan Smith

St Johnstone chairman Steve Brown to step down after 11 years at McDiarmid Park

Steve Brown will stand down from his role as St Johnstone chairman at the end of May, the club have announced.

The chairman will make this official at the club's AGM. Vice-Chairman, Charlie Fraser, will also be relinquishing his role at the same time after eight years in the position. 

Brown has been at the McDiarmid Park helm for 11 years and has decided the time is right to leave the Perth club.

He took over as chairman from his father, Geoff, in November, 2011.

During this period, Saints have been ever-present in Scottish football's top-flight, winning the Scottish Cup in 2014 and also the historic cup double in 2021. It's been the most successful period in the club's history.

Brown said: "As a life-long St Johnstone supporter, it's been an honour to be a part of this great football club.

"During my time on the board, and as chairman, I've always given 100 per cent and tried to do what was best for St Johnstone.

"We've had some great times and the cup successes in 2014 and 2021 will never leave me. We've played in European football and we've had many, many top six finishes.

"But I feel the time is right to stand down as chairman and I will go on May 31st of next year.

"This has been on my mind for some time. But when Covid-19 struck in March 2020 there was no way I could have stepped down then. 

"I had to stay because I had a responsibility to the football club and to stand by it. It was an extremely challenging period and we needed sustained stability. 

"The double cup win came the following season from Callum and the players and that was just amazing.

"Last season presented different challenges and it was all hands on deck to preserve our SPFL Premiership status.

"Now, I look around and see stability, on and off the park. We have some excellent people working here. The football club is in a really good place in many aspects.

"So, after 18 years on the board, 11 of which as chairman, it is the right time. 

"I will not be staying on as a director. However, I will always be available if anyone at the football club ever needs me. I'm only a phone call away should any guidance be required.

"I will remain a Saints supporter. That will never change. And I'd also like to place on record my sincere thanks to our loyal fans for the backing they've given me during my tenure."

The chairman also praised Charlie Fraser for his contribution to the club.

He said: "Charlie has been by my side as vice-chair for eight years and has been an excellent sounding board. His guidance and wisdom has been first-class. 

"As is the case with myself, Charlie has been here on a voluntary basis. He's given up his time to help St Johnstone because of his passion for the club.

"I'd like to thank him for his service and know he will be fully committed to all aspects until the end of the season."

Fraser added: "I'd like to thank the Brown family for getting me involved in the club I love. It's been a privilege.

"I've been very proud to have been involved during the most successful time in St Johnstone's history.

"I will always be a Saints supporter and I will leave next year with many, many fond memories."

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