NEWCASTLE United will have a new-look executive management team in place next season following confirmation that Chris Mort has stepped down from his role as Chairman.

Deputy Chairman Derek Llambias has a new title of Managing Director and will head up the boardroom structure at St. James' Park, supported by David Williamson, Executive Director (Operations) and Dennis Wise, Executive Director (Football).

Mr Llambias said: "Since coming to work at Newcastle United I have quickly begun to appreciate the passion people have for the Football Club.

"I firmly believe we have the right people with the right expertise, with Kevin Keegan back as manager and being fully supported by Mike Ashley and the directors, to take the Club forward again.

"At the same time, I'd like to pay tribute to all of the hard work done by Chris during his time at St. James' Park and wish him every success for the future."

Chris Mort was appointed Chairman of Newcastle United in the summer of 2007, following Mike Ashley's purchase of the Club.

During his time at the helm, Mr Mort undertook a full strategic review of the Club and helped bring in a number of new personnel in key positions, as well as significantly enhancing relationships with supporters and overseeing the creation of the Newcastle United Foundation, which will further strengthen the Club's presence in the local community.

Mr Mort, who will be returning to his work as a partner at London law firm Freshfields, said: "I've enjoyed my time immensely as Chairman of Newcastle United but with high quality individuals recruited for each of the key management roles at the club, and the club heading in the right direction following the strategic review, the time feels right for me to return to Freshfields.

"From the moment I arrived in the north east, I received the warmest of welcomes and I must thank the people of Newcastle for that.

"Having experienced the unique atmosphere generated at St. James' Park on matchdays, and also by the Newcastle United supporters on our travels away, I look forward to supporting the team next season and will continue to get to as many matches as I can."