The Premier League will have to find another new Chief Executive quickly, after Susanna Dinnage turned them down.
As outlined on this site, Susanna Dinnage accepted the job offer in early November. However, after a change of mind, Susanna Dinnage has withdrawn her candidacy.
Dinnage will reportedly remain in her role at the Discover network.
Replacing the outgoing Richard Scudamore, she would have been the first female Chief Executive of the Premier League.
“Despite her commitment to the Premier League in early November, Susanna Dinnage has now advised the Nominations Committee that she will not be taking up the position of chief executive,” a Premier League statement read.
“The Committee has reconvened its search and is talking to candidates. There will be no further comment until an appointment is made.”
Read: Premier League Powers Won’t Have it All Their Own Way in Europe
It remains to be seen who the Premier League will turn to now. Although, quotes from Bruce Buck in November reveal the direction that the league is going in.
“We had a very strong field, but Susanna was the outstanding choice given her track record in managing complex businesses through transformation and digital disruption,” said Buck.
“She is a leading figure in the broadcasting industry, a proven business executive and a great developer of people. She is ideally suited to the role and we are confident she will be able to take the Premier League on to new heights.”
Amid a changing media landscape, even a heavyweight like the Premier League has to adapt. Buck’s mention of ‘digital disruption’ is notable as we move towards mobile device dominated media consumption habits.
Rumours abound about Facebook or Amazon live streaming Premier League games. As such, how the league adapts to new consumer behaviours will be crucial.
At the time of her appointment, Dinnage said: “The Premier League means so much to so many people. It represents the pinnacle of professional sport and the opportunity to lead such a dynamic and inspirational organisation is a great privilege.”
