The National League chairman Brian Barwick has notified the Board he will be stepping
down from his position at the end of the 2020/21 season.
Barwick, 66, has enjoyed a long and distinguished career, spanning over 40 years, with
senior roles in both major sports broadcasting organisations and high-profile sports
governing bodies.
In December, the former Football Association chief executive was awarded an OBE in the
New Year Honours List for services to sport and broadcasting.
The Chairman stated, “After careful consideration I formally told the National League Board
in February that I intended to step down at the end of the 2020/21 season.
I think it is the right time to relinquish the role - and give somebody else the great privilege
of leading the organisation.
Since 2015, I believe the competition has continued to grow in stature and profile, sent
strong clubs up into the EFL and built up a formidable and loyal set of commercial and
broadcast partnerships.
Our 66 clubs remain the life-blood of our competition and a vital part of their local
communities - and that's what makes our League so special.
I also acknowledge just how tough it has been for many of our clubs over the past twelve
months facing the unprecedented challenges brought on by the Covid pandemic.
In closing, I would like to thank my National League Board colleagues, the League's
executive, our commercial partners, the wider football family and, most importantly, our
member clubs for their warm welcomes and support over the past six years.
I will continue to commit myself to the well-being of the National League until the end of
the season.
And, of course, I wish my successor as Chair and everybody connected with the National
League my very best wishes for a brilliant future.”
National League vice-chairman Jack Pearce said: “Brian's appointment signified a change of
direction by The National League in 2015 for the benefit of the competition.
Whilst it would be easy to reflect on what has been a very challenging year for football, not
only The National League, the progression of the competition over this six-year period has
been greater than we could have expected.
The Chairman has been influential in our long-term commercial partnerships with
Vanarama and BT Sport, with the three-year extensions on enhanced terms this season
providing security for member clubs. We have also seen an increased level of
professionalism, both on and off the pitch at clubs, since Brian's appointment.
Brian's remarkable work ethic and trust in others have made him an invaluable colleague
and a person I consider to be a wonderful friend.”
General Manager Mark Ives also added: “Brian has worked tirelessly for the benefit of the
League and his vast experience across the game and the media has been a tremendous
benefit to the League and its member clubs.
“I have had the privilege now of working with Brian on two separate occasions during my
career, and his knowledge and determination has been exceptional. We are all grateful for
his support over the years.”