Sunderland's League One rivals Portsmouth announce shock resignation of CEO Mark Catlin

Sunderland’s League One rivals announced on Friday morning that Catlin is stepping down to take up a position with The Topps Company, but will remain as a director of the club.

Pompey Chairman Michael Eisner said: “Mark is one of the best businessmen I have known throughout my career and he has led Portsmouth Football Club with courage and tenacity from the dark days of administration to the bright and hopeful place we are today.

“I will continue to value his professional contributions – both as a member of the Pompey board and in his new role at Topps – and his friendship.”

Catlin said: “It has been an absolute honour and privilege to have been CEO of Portsmouth Football Club. To represent this club and our supporters – I would argue some of the most loyal and passionate in the world – has genuinely been the greatest experience of my life.

“I have been extremely fortunate to work as part of a larger team throughout this period, with people who care passionately about Pompey.

“Whether staff, director or fan, we all share a deep love and emotional attachment to the club and city.”

Catlin arrived at Fratton Park in October 2012 to work voluntarily with the Pompey Supporters’ Trust and Presidents in helping save the club from extinction.

He was then appointed CEO as liquidation was avoided and, over the next few years, existing debts of more than £8-million and annual losses of more than £1million were erased during the recovery from administration.

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