Former Celtic chief resigns from SPFL club due to ‘health reasons’

Jock Brown, former Celtic chief, has resigned as Chairman of Hamilton Accies, citing a ‘difficult and turbulent moment’ at the South Lanarkshire club.

The Accies issued a statement announcing Brown’s decision to depart the club, citing ‘health concerns’.

Brown previously worked as Celtic’s general manager from 1997 to 1998, and he was responsible in the hiring of former managers Wim Jansen and Jozef Venglos. He departed following a contentious spell at Parkhead.

Jock Brown resigns as chairman of Hamilton Accies.
The Accies released a statement expressing ‘deep respect and profound thanks’ for Brown’s departure.

“Jock has been much more than just the Chairman of our Football Club. He has been a continual source of wisdom, integrity, and compassion, one of the most complete human beings we have ever had the opportunity to work with,” according to a statement on the club’s website.

“He has led the Club through one of the most difficult and volatile eras in its history, exhibiting strength, patience, and unshakable commitment when these characteristics were in short supply.

“The entire club owes Jock a huge debt of gratitude. His honesty, personal integrity, and commitment to operational transparency have resulted in a clear benchmark for the club to strive toward.

“We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Jock and his family for their contribution, care, and sacrifice. He leaves with our heartfelt affection and lasting friendship.

Hamilton Accies suffer off the pitch.
The Accies have had a difficult run of events, getting relegated from the Championship to League One last season after receiving a huge 15-point deduction for a variety of rule violations.

The club was barred from signing senior professional players in July due to a failure to meet tax commitments. They received another six-point deduction and a £22,000 fine last month for ‘paying trialists and fielding amateur players while under a transfer embargo’.

“The club is obviously very disappointed at the outcome of the appeal to the SFA tribunal, where the decision of the SPFL tribunal was upheld with the result that the 15-point deduction stands,” Brown explained at the time of Hamilton’s relegation.

“The board is prevented from making any further comment on the matter by SPFL regulations but will communicate further with supporters in early course.”

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