Oxford United have announced Niall McWilliams as their new managing director.

Having been involved with the club in his role as the executive headteacher at the Oxford Academy and John Henry Newman Academy, McWilliams will work alongside Benn Brown, the club’s finance director.

He will continue his academy roles on a part-time basis.

Chairman Darryl Eales had been doubling up in the role since the departure of Greig Box Turnbull in the summer.

And he was delighted at the appointment.

“Niall is already well known to many people across the club and brings a wealth of complex leadership experience as well as a in-depth local knowledge, especially grass roots football and connections with local institutions," he said.

“Although a Celtic fan by birth, Niall is a passionate supporter of OUFC and will bring his work ethic, enthusiasm and continuous improvement focus to the benefit of the club.

“Niall’s appointment, alongside the recent senior management changes with the appointment of Richard Blackmore and promotion of Claire Theobald, means that we have strength in depth across club operations and we will continue to drive continuous improvement and greater efficiency across the club.

“I am sure everyone will join me in wishing Niall every success in his new role and we all look forward to working with him in the best interests of Oxford United.”

McWilliams told the club's website: “It’s an honour and I am very proud to be joining Oxford United.

"They have been a huge part of my life for many years and to be asked to be part of the team running the club is very flattering.

"Darryl and the staff behind the scenes have worked so hard in moving every area forward and I want to be part of a very bright future here.

"I am extremely pleased that I am able to take this role and continue to support The Oxford Academy which continues to be one of the highest performing schools in the country.

"People who know me, know that I will continue to work tirelessly to support students, parents and the community; a community that is extremely important to me.”