John Campbell will succeed Rod Houston as Breedon Highland League secretary.
The 53-year-old from Lossiemouth will take over at the end of the season when Houston steps down after six years in the post.
A former referee in both the Highland League and Scottish League, Campbell has served as chief executive officer of the Scottish Welfare Football Association for the last 10 years.
He has also been a member of the Scottish FA’s non-professional game board since 2011.
‘I’m absolutely delighted’
Campbell’s appointment was ratified at last night’s Highland League management committee meeting, he will be the seventh secretary in the 128-year history of the division.
He said: “I’m absolutely delighted, the Highland League is something I was brought up with and to be able to join and play a part is something I’m delighted about.
“I used to play football to not a very high level, then I took up refereeing and refereed in the Highland League and the Scottish League.
“When my career in refereeing finished I wanted to stay involved in football at some level.
“It’s about being able to put something back into the game and be involved.
“I know I can’t play or anything like that, but having the opportunity to involved and engaged at this level as an administrator has really drawn me to it.
“Every year I was involved in the Highland League as a referee I thought it was a family-orientated, friendly place to be.
“Each club has got their own fanbase and the clubs are great within their communities and every club has great history.
“The process the Highland League has gone through allows me the time to learn from Rod.
“It’s great I’ve got the opportunity to learn the ropes first-hand from Rod before he steps down and I’m looking forward to doing that.”
Manson looking forward to working with Campbell
Highland League president George Manson added: “John comes with the right pedigree, he’s experienced in football and in football administration.
“We haven’t had many secretaries over the history of the league and I’m looking forward to John joining.
“I’m disappointed Rod is stepping down because Rod has been excellent.
“Without Rod and Graham Wilson (assistant secretary) I’m not sure if the league would have got through the pandemic.
“They’ve done a great amount of work and I’m sure John will fit into that seamlessly.”
