Arsenal executive vice-chairman Tim Lewis was abruptly removed from his position during the September international break after five years on the board.

Lewis declined an offer to remain as a non-executive director after being informed he would not continue as vice-chair. The 62-year-old former lawyer served two years as executive vice-chairman and was closely involved in Arsenal's recent transfer activities.

Arsenal appointed four new board members alongside Lewis' departure. Kelly Blaha, Dave Steiner, Ben Winston, and Otto Maly joined co-chair Josh Kroenke on the refreshed board.

Richard Garlick was promoted from managing director to CEO as part of the organizational restructuring. The changes reflect Josh Kroenke's increasing involvement in Arsenal operations after attending all but one Premier League game this season.

Lewis guided Arsenal through financial difficulties during the coronavirus pandemic after joining the board in July 2020. He helped restructure the club's £144 million stadium debt through a loan from Kroenke Sports & Entertainment.

The former Clifford Chance lawyer was instrumental in Arsenal's return to European competition and recent transfer successes. He maintained close relationships with manager Mikel Arteta and former sporting director Edu Gaspar.

"At this moment, we would like to thank Tim for his continued dedication and commitment to Arsenal in a period of transformational change for the club," Josh Kroenke said on behalf of Arsenal's ownership group. "He has played a pivotal role and ensured we are in a great position to continue to deliver our strategy in our ambition to win major trophies."

Lewis earned a reputation as an outspoken figure at Premier League meetings, particularly on associated party transactions and state-funded ownership issues. His confrontational approach sometimes created friction with rival clubs and executives.

Sources described Lewis as articulate and authoritative but noted his abrasive style ruffled feathers. His difficult relationship with Manchester City was highlighted after he failed to congratulate their officials following a 2-2 draw in September 2024.

Lewis operated with great authority as Arsenal's top executive, with many inside and outside the club viewing him as the de facto decision-maker. This dynamic may have created discomfort for the Kroenkes, who typically encourage collaborative leadership approaches.

With Arsenal and KSE positioned for potential success, questions emerged about ownership of future achievements. Some sources believe Lewis' removal represents a natural transition of power rather than a dismissal based on performance issues.

Josh Kroenke's involvement has steadily increased since KSE's outright purchase of Arsenal in 2018. His recent restructuring of the Denver Nuggets management team in April demonstrated his willingness to make decisive leadership changes across KSE properties.

Josh Kroenke's support for Arteta and Berta proved critical to Arsenal's successful summer recruitment. The timing of Lewis' exit surprised many given his backing of both the manager and new sporting director Andrea Berta.