Wanderers have confirmed that chief executive Neil Hart will be stepping down to "pursue a new opportunity within football".

Hart has been in the role for the past three years and has overseen some major changes including the introduction of a membership scheme, the creation of the Fanzone in conjunction with the BWFC Supporters’ Trust, the launch of a bond which raised £4.5million and a five-year stadium naming rights deal with local environmental firm Toughsheet, which was described as the most lucrative in the club's history.

Chief operating officer Phil Mason and chief financial officer Niaz Shazad will "oversee the day-to-day operations of the club", working closely with Sharon Brittan and the board.

Brittan said: "On behalf of the board and everyone at Bolton Wanderers, I want to express our sincere gratitude to Neil for his dedicated service over the past three years.

"His leadership has been instrumental in the progress we've made as a club, both on and off the pitch. His commitment to our One Club, One Community, One Town vision has been particularly exceptional.

"During Neil's tenure, we've seen significant strides in stabilising our operations and strengthening our connection with fans and stakeholders. The progress we've made is a testament to Neil's hard work and strategic approach, and his contributions have laid a solid foundation for our continued growth and success. 

"We will not stand in the way of people and their career choices but I want to assure all our fans and stakeholders that I will always act in the best interests of this football club.

"I will never allow any deal to be completed until all contractual obligations have been met.

"While we are sad to see Neil go, we understand and respect his decision to take on a new challenge. We wish him every success in his new role.

"The board and I are now focused on building upon Neil's good work and continue to drive our club forward. We're excited about the future of Bolton Wanderers and remain committed to our long-term vision of success both on and off the field.”

Hart's tenure coincided with a period of considerable commercial growth at the club, including record post-Premier League season ticket and merchandising sales, plus an upswing in average attendances.

He added: "It's been a pleasure to serve this club as CEO over the last three years and I know I leave it in a much stronger position than when I arrived. It's been a fantastic journey which will stay with me forever.

"I would like to pay tribute to our fantastic staff across the club and hotel, who work incredibly hard and are an absolute credit to the club and wider business. 

"I would also like to thank the board of directors - Sharon Brittan, Nick Luckock and Michael James - for their support and commitment during my tenure – they are all fantastic custodians of this historic football club. 

"Finally, I thank all our supporters, sponsors, business partners and civic stakeholders – we have collectively unified the club and community over recent years.

"I must also mention and thank our Supporters' Trust whom we have worked with very closely over the last three years, which has seen the introduction of many important fan engagement initiatives. Thank you to each and every one of you."