'As if 2020 couldn't get any worse': Hibs fans react to Leeann Dempster departure

Leeann Dempster’s decision to resign as Hibernian chief executive caught many by surprise – and left chairman Ron Gordon disappointed.

Fans thanked Leeann Dempster for her work - and highlighted the special day in May 2016

He wasn’t the only one as the Easter Road fanbase united to wish the departing Dempster well and thank her for her work at the club – and even ex-midfielder Marvin Bartley paid tribute.

@TheRealPanicFC: “Thank your tireless efforts and great leadership. Good luck to you in all your future endeavours.”

@PaulRamsay7: “Thanks for your hard work over the six years!”

The CEO was held in high regard

@Declan216: “This is gutting the woman transformed our club infront of all of us what a pleasure its been.”

@dothebartman1: “Leeann is pure class, this is a HUGE void to fill!!”

@StephenMcnall17: “My heart is broken good luck wish you all the best GGTTH”

@APlate20: “I think the Hibs support as a whole, will wish Leeann all the very best in her future endeavours... But, she will be sorely missed by us all... Thank you @LeeannDempster for all you have done for our club.”

Hibs announced Ms Dempster's resignation earlier today.

Others were less surprised at the move, but many wondered where she would move to having held the CEO roles at both Hibs and Motherwell.

Andrew Mcbean: “Not surprised, Ron has his own plans and his own man.”

@granthibs: “The fact she’s told Ron Gordon she will always be there to help him, and that she has grown to love Hibernian, I’d hazard a guess and say her new challenge will be outwith football. Cannot see her new employer (if fitba) being happy if she’s still helping her old club."

@Icanthinkformy2: “Very strange time to go, when all clubs need leadership and direction to try and recover from the financial devastation of the pandemic.”

@TheThrifter70: “A job like this has a shelf life. She’s done a great job and wish her well but maybe be good to get someone new in.”

Mark Smith: “Sad, I think she was good for us.”

@scottyb1875: “Nice person good CEO but it’s a business – let’s not go overboard on the sentimentality or panic. A suit leaves the club. Thanks for the service, good luck. Next!"

The overwhelming message, though, was one of gratitude – with some highlights mentioned for good measure, and one day in particular was mentioned, several times over.

@Rosssmi31753108: “Good luck in your new career Leeann thanks for the memories of Scottish cup win 2016 and the promotion back to Scottish premiership in 2017, you are always welcome back to Easter Road stadium as a fan in the future.”

@LeytherMatt: “THAT trophy and an insane rise in average attendances. Can't say fairer than that.”

@kamachazzi: “All the very best and thank you for the part you played in giving every Hibs fan the best day of our lives.”

@jonnygrn: “Sad news but what a leader who lifted the club from the ground up and made it feel like a community again. Legend forever and good luck in the future.”

@a_rouquin: “As if 2020 couldn't get any worse. Thanks for everything Leeann - forever a Hibs legend.”

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