Millwall confirm senior management changes

Millwall have confirmed that chief executive Steve Kavanagh and director of football operations and recruitment Alex Aldridge have both left their positions.

The South London Press understands that Steve Gallen, who formerly headed up the recruitment at Charlton, will be in charge of that department moving forward.

Kavanagh is an experienced football operator who has been at the Lions since October 2016. He was appointed an EFL non-executive director in June 2022.

Aldridge had been director of recruitment at Stoke before replacing Harvey Bussell by returning to Millwall in March 2022. He had three years of being head of recruitment at the South London club before that – and became the youngest person in that role in the country, aged 28, when he took it on in July 2017.

Millwall’s chairman James Berylson said: “I would like to thank Steve for his leadership and dedication to the club over the past eight years.

“Steve joined when we were a League One team and oversaw our promotion and return to The Championship.

“Steve was a significant force within the club to stabilise and grow both football and non-football operations. His steadfast determination in advancing the redevelopment around The Den as well as being a leader in the EFL added to his accomplishments.

“I know that my father, John, shared this opinion and enjoyed the close working relationship he had with Steve. I wish him only the best in his future endeavours.”

In addition to Steve’s departure, Billy Taylor and Alex Aldridge will also be leaving the club as Chief Operating Officer and Director of Football Operations and Recruitment, respectively.

The chairman added: “I would like to thank Billy and Alex for their outstanding service to the club.

“Billy’s journey started in 2011 as Matchday Programme and Social Media Editor. “His work ethic was unquestionable, as was his talent and passion to do his very best for the club in the several roles he oversaw. As a result, he earned numerous and deserved promotions, before his most recent appointment as COO.

“Alex began as a Recruitment Officer for the club in 2015 and was quickly promoted to Head of Recruitment.

“After a short spell in the same capacity at Stoke, Alex returned to the club as Director of Football Operations and Recruitment and helped the club to improve all aspects of scouting, facilities and analytics.

“Billy and Alex will always be part of the Millwall family, and I have the highest regards for both of them.”