Wigan Athletic CEO drops bombshell after less than a month in the job

Wigan Athletic have already begun the search for a new chief executive officer following the shock departure of Anthony Cole-Johnson.

Due to a 'change in his personal circumstances,' Cole-Johnson informed the club of his intention to step down after less than a month in the job.

Cole-Johnson only joined the club last month after Sarah Guilfoyle left her job as managing director on the eve of the season.

He will serve his notice period over the next month, to 'ensure a smooth handover'.

“I have really enjoyed my time at the club and have been hugely impressed by the people working across Wigan Athletic and the wider group," he said.

"In a relatively short space of time, I have come to understand what makes this club so special, and I have made friendships with some amazing people across the organisation.

“I would particularly like to thank the board - Brenda (Spencer), Ben (Goodburn) and Lucas (Danson) - for the support and understanding they have shown me throughout this period.

"I have seen first-hand their commitment to the club and the town.

“My focus over the coming weeks will be on continuing to work with the senior leadership team to develop the strategy and structures we have started to put in place, ensuring the club has a clear direction that can continue well beyond my time here.

“I would like to thank everyone at Wigan Athletic for the welcome they have given me and wish the club every success for the future.”

The club confirmed Cole-Johnson would be present at the scheduled Fans Forum on Wednesday evening as planned, along with Lucas Danson and head coach Gary Caldwell.

"Since joining Wigan Athletic, Anthony has started work on building a top-six standard off the pitch to support the club’s longer-term plans to be commercially sustainable and ambitious on the pitch,” a club statement added.

"That work will continue during his notice period and will remain in place for the club to build on after his departure.

"The club would like to thank Anthony for his contribution and wishes him and his family well for the future."