Macclesfield Football Club has appointed former England international Keith Curle as their new chief executive, signaling a strategic move to stabilize and strengthen the National League North side. The 62-year-old ex-defender, who played for clubs including Manchester City and Wolverhampton Wanderers, brings extensive experience from both football management and business to his new role.

Curle’s managerial career spans several decades and includes guiding Northampton Town to promotion from League Two in the 2019-20 season. Beyond the pitch, he runs a property development company and a sports management firm, and he serves as a mentor with the League Managers Association. The club emphasized that Curle’s broad expertise will be instrumental in shaping Macclesfield’s long-term strategy and commercial objectives.

In his capacity as chief executive, Curle will oversee all operational aspects of the club and report directly to the board of directors. The club noted that his strong commercial acumen equips him to lead Macclesfield toward financial sustainability at every level. Additionally, his deep understanding of the football hierarchy is expected to enhance the club’s recruitment processes, provide mentorship to coaching staff, and help develop sporting infrastructure that meets standards required for progression into the English Football League.

Macclesfield hopes Curle’s appointment will bring much-needed stability following recent turbulence at the club’s leadership level. Founder and co-owner Rob Smethurst was temporarily suspended from his duties after being arrested last month on suspicion of controlling and coercive behavior, allegations he denies. After discussions with the board, Smethurst was swiftly reinstated.

With Curle at the helm as chief executive, Macclesfield aims to rebuild and strengthen its operations, ensuring the club is positioned for sustainable success both on and off the pitch.