Celtic are once again facing questions about leadership at boardroom level, with attention turning to who could become the club’s next chairman.
Peter Lawwell’s departure has left a vacuum at a time when supporters are already uneasy about direction, communication, and accountability. As with everything at Celtic right now, the discussion is shaped as much by feeling as by structure.
The chairman role at Celtic has never been a purely ceremonial position. It carries influence, symbolism, and responsibility, especially during periods of strain.
With results on the pitch faltering and trust between fans and the hierarchy badly damaged, the next appointment will be judged on tone as well as experience.
Several names have been mentioned or quietly discussed, each representing a different path. Some are familiar figures from inside the club, while others would signal a clear break from the past.
What unites them is the scale of the challenge they would inherit in a tense environment.
Several names have been mentioned or quietly discussed, each representing a different path.
Some are familiar figures from inside the club, while others would signal a clear break from the past. What unites them is the scale of the challenge they would inherit in a tense environment.
Brian Wilson
One internal option is Brian Wilson, a long-serving non-executive director who has been part of the board for many years. His experience means he understands Celtic’s structure, but that longevity also raises doubts among supporters seeking visible change.
Chris McKay
Chris McKay is another figure already inside the building. As chief financial officer, he has overseen Celtic’s finances during a strong commercial period. That stability matters, though many fans are looking for leadership that feels more assertive.
Michael Nicholson
Michael Nicholson, the club’s chief executive, is also mentioned when leadership roles are discussed. His corporate background suits modern governance, but his association with recent decisions makes his candidacy a difficult sell to a restless support.
Susan Whelan
Outside the club, Susan Whelan stands out as an experienced football executive. Her work at Leicester City brought sustained progress, and her distance from Celtic’s internal politics could appeal to those craving a fresh start.
William Haughey
William Haughey is often mentioned because of his business profile rather than football involvement. While his authority is clear, supporters remain cautious about appointments that feel symbolic rather than practical.
Dermot Desmond
Dermot Desmond’s name inevitably appears due to his major shareholding. However, a formal move into the chairmanship would not be seen as meaningful change and could deepen existing tensions.
Gordon Strachan
Gordon Strachan offers instant recognition and football insight. His Celtic history carries weight, though his strengths are more aligned with sporting roles than boardroom leadership.
Martin O’Neill
Martin O’Neill has previously been linked with the chairman role, but the current mood has shifted. If Wilfried Nancy were to leave, many supporters would want O’Neill back as manager rather than as a boardroom figure.
Whoever takes the role will inherit a club under pressure on and off the pitch. While no chairman can solve every problem, this appointment will shape how the next chapter is received by a support desperate for clarity and leadership.
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