Former Hibs chairman rejoins board after invitation from Ron Gordon

Malcolm McPherson, right, pictured when Hibs chairman back in 2002.

Former Hibs chairman Malcolm McPherson has returned to the club as a non-executive director.

McPherson, currently a corporate lawyer with Addleshaw Goddard, was invited back into the Hibs boardroom at the request of current owner Ron Gordon.

A highly respected figure in legal and corporate circles, McPherson was chairman of Hibs between 1999 and 2002 and was at the helm as the Capital outfit recovered from relegation under Alex McLeish. He departed in September 2012, with differences in opinion with other board members cited as the reason for him standing down, being replaced by Ken Lewandowski.

At the time of his exit, McPherson – who has since spoken of how difficult it was to sack Franck Sauzee as Hibs manager – said: “There has been no big fall out, but it is important at this time of challenge and change that the team acts and thinks as one. Therefore, I have decided that it is right for everyone that I withdraw. I will continue to support the club in any way that I can."

Now, current chairman Gordon invited him back to the club and McPherson accepted after 18 years away.

“I am very pleased that Malcolm has accepted our invitation to join the board,” said Gordon on the club's website. “He brings terrific legal and business experience and has a real passion for the club. I know he will be a great contributor to the board as we take forward our vision for the club.”

McPherson said: “I am delighted and proud to have been invited to join the board as we enter this new and exciting time in the club’s development. I’ve met with Ron many times, and have been very impressed with his ambitions for our club and the energy and passion that he brings. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the board.”