The English Football League (EFL) has confirmed that chief executive Trevor Birch will step down from his position at the end of the 2026-27 season.
Birch, who has led the EFL since January 2021, will remain in his role for the next 12 months while the league works with its board, executive team and 72 member clubs to prepare for the next phase of its leadership.
A highly experienced football executive, Birch has held senior positions across both football and finance throughout his career. He previously served as chief executive of Premier League clubs Chelsea and Everton and also worked in leadership roles at Derby County, Sheffield United and Swansea City. Outside football, he was a partner at Deloitte and chief operating officer at sports marketing agency Sportfive. Before joining the EFL, he was Tottenham Hotspur’s director of football.
Reflecting on his decision, the 68-year-old said it had been a privilege to serve as chief executive of the EFL and that his focus over the coming season would be supporting the league, its clubs and staff while ensuring a smooth transition to new leadership.
One of the most significant developments during Birch’s tenure has been the recent expansion of the Championship play-off system from four teams to six, a move designed to increase competition and opportunity across the division.
EFL chairman Rick Parry, who was re-elected for another three-year term at the league’s Annual General Meeting, praised Birch’s leadership and contribution to the competition.
“Trevor has led the EFL with clarity and commitment during an important period for the league,” Parry said. “The board is grateful for his contribution and fully supports the process that will ensure an orderly transition and continued stability over the next 12 months.”
Birch’s departure will mark the end of more than six years of leadership at the EFL, with the search for his successor expected to begin in the coming months.