Hibs supporters have been reacting to the news that Ben Kensell has left his role as CEO by mutual consent.
The Leith outfit announced the departure of Kensell on Thursday afternoon as they highlighted the progress made under his three-and-a-half year stewardship.
Hibs then confirmed that there will be a recruitment process to appoint Kensell’s successor.
The statement read on Hibs’ official website: “Hibernian FC today confirms the departure of Chief Executive Ben Kensell. Kensell joined in July 2021 and helped the Club evolve significantly.
“During his tenure, Hibernian FC increased its commercial revenue and overall turnover. Kensell was instrumental in the delivery of the Easter Road Stadium infrastructure investment project which now delivers a first-class matchday experience.
“He also played an integral role introducing Black Knight Football to Hibernian FC – a first of its kind of partnership in Scottish football.
“During the recruitment process for a new Chief Executive Officer, Hibernian FC will continue to be led by its Board of Directors, with the Senior Management Team looking after the day-to-day operations.”
Hibs fans have their say over Kensell exit
Hibs shared the news of Ben Kensell’s exit on social media platform X and the post garnered plenty of positive replies.
The vast majority of supporters are delighted with the announcement after a tumultuous period for the club on the pitch under Kensell.
One supporter posted: “THANK THE LORD.”
Another asked: “am i dreaming?????”
This fan posted: “And I though christmas was last month.”
This Hibee said: “Not many people will be unhappy at this. Huge wage that could have gone on players was being paid to him and what did he achieve, nothing.”
Another fan wants sporting director Malky Mackay to leave next: “Malky next, thanks driver.”
One punter, however, did offer a smidgen of credit to Kensell: “Best all round done well commercially but we’ve been a shambles on field since he arrived.”
Hibs fans directed abuse at Kensell in November
Hibs endured an awful start to the 2024/25 season as they languished at the bottom of the Premiership in November.
The club decided to stick by under-pressure manager David Gray after an awful run of results, but it was actually Kensell and the board who felt the wrath of the supporters.
During Hibs’s 3-3 draw with Aberdeen in November, a number of fans chanted “Kensell, get to f**k” from the Easter Road stands as they shared their displeasure at the running of the club.
Now, two months after that incident, Hibs are in a much better state on the pitch as Gray managed to turn the dire form around and push up the league table.
But the resent towards Kensell and the board did not dissipate amongst the fan base and that is clear by many of the reactions to the now ex-chief executive’s departure.