'He has the full support of the board' - Chesterfield appoint former director John Croot as chief executive

Croot, a former Spireites director, is chief executive of the community trust and now takes up the same role at the club following the takeover.

Meanwhile, Andy Fantom, who helped set up Chesterfield Football Supporters Society back in 2001, has been appointed chief finance officer

Spireites chairman, Mike Goodwin, said Croot played an “important role” in the community trust’s decision to purchase the football club after previously playing a “crucial role” in saving the club from folding in the past.

“Having worked closely with John at the community trust, he has done a fantastic job as the trust’s chief executive and he has the full support of the board to take charge of the day to day running of the club,” Mr Goodwin said.

“John has a wealth of experience, having first joined the board in the 1980s and his passion for the club shines through. He was urged by the trustees to remain on the board under the previous ownership as he is well respected in the town and in football. His knowledge and contacts are invaluable.”

Goodwin added: “It was also important that we brought in someone to closely control the club’s finances and Andy Fantom fits the bill perfectly.

“Andy will be known to many after helping to set up the CFSS, who rescued the club following Darren Brown’s spell as owner. His commercial experience includes managing banks and building societies and his financial acumen will be vitally important.”