Tuesday 22 May 2018 15:41, UK
Martin Bain has left Sunderland after his chief executive role was made redundant, the League One club have confirmed.
Bain joined the Black Cats in 2016, replacing Margaret Byrne as chief executive, but has overseen back-to-back relegations with the club dropping from the Premier League to the third tier.
Bain announced on Tuesday that he has left the club and that a new chief executive will not be appointed to replace him at the Stadium of Light.
"My position of CEO at Sunderland AFC has been made redundant and I will be leaving the club with immediate effect," said Bain, in a statement released on Sunderland's official website.
"I wish the new owners and those involved with the club moving forward well for the future.
"During the last two years, I have had the honour and pleasure of working alongside a dedicated and passionate group of staff, who have nothing but the best interests of the club at their core.
"I am hugely appreciative of the steadfast support they have given me and I truly hope that they get to enjoy happier times.
"It has been a testing period personally in exceptionally difficult circumstances and I sincerely wish for a brighter future for the club and its supporters."
Bain's departure follows the completion of businessman Stewart Donald's £40m takeover at the Stadium of Light.
"We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Martin for all of his efforts during his time at the club and in particular for his work during the takeover process, which we very much appreciate," added Donald.
"We wish him well for the future."
