David Baldwin is to stand down as the EFL’s chief executive, having taken up the role in June.
A statement from the league confirmed the former Burnley chief executive would leave in six months’ time. The league said the decision was totally unrelated to Project Big Picture, the plans for reforming the English football pyramid which involve the EFL chairman, Rick Parry.
Baldwin said: “Having thoroughly reflected on my own personal circumstances at length in recent weeks, I have now determined it is only appropriate to inform the board and the membership of the EFL of my intentions at the earliest opportunity.
“Clearly, accepting this position pre-Covid-19 means the situation is now very different to the one I originally envisaged coupled with it being a very different environment inside the EFL, when compared to the one I left in 2015-16.
“Taking those two factors into consideration and balancing the needs of my family, health and wellbeing, I feel the decision to leave is the right one.
“Between now and my departure date there is still plenty of work to be undertaken on behalf of EFL clubs and I remain committed to finding solutions to the many challenges we currently face.”
Parry said: “Whilst disappointed, I understand the reasons Dave has outlined and respect his wishes. He remains committed to the EFL and will continue to lead the executive until he leaves us in 2021.”
Baldwin was confirmed as the permanent successor to Shaun Harvey in December last year. He had been chief executive at the Premier League club Burnley since 2015, having previously been at Bradford.
At the time of Baldwin’s appointment, Parry said: “David has a deep and thorough understanding of the game in this country; he joins us with direct experience of running clubs in the Premier League and the EFL, with an excellent reputation and proven ability to build and grow relationships.
“David was the outstanding candidate in a strong field. With his strong leadership skills and enthusiasm for league football, I have no doubt that we have found the right person to lead the organisation. It is quite clear from talking to David that he is excited to be joining the League and relishing the challenge ahead.”
The EFL said it would immediately begin the recruitment process for Baldwin’s successor.