McKay insists timing is right to make Celtic move
INCOMING Celtic chief executive Dominic McKay insists the timing is right for him to make the switch to Parkhead early.
McKay was initially scheduled to remain in post as chief operating officer with Scottish Rugby until the end of June before replacing the retiring Peter Lawwell.
However, it was announced earlier this week that the 42-year-old would instead depart the SRU after 13 years on April 16, allowing him to start with the Hoops three days later.
McKay will work alongside Lawwell “to ensure a smooth transition” until he takes over as CEO and board member on July 1.
Scottish Rugby’s No.2 administrator, who was also chairman of the Guinness PRO14 and a director of Rugby Europe, is now expected to help deliver Celtic’s new management team and structure, with negotiations continuing with Eddie Howe.
With plenty of work to do in Glasgow, McKay admits it made sense for him to leave Murrayfield now.
He said: “Naturally, with the end of the Six Nations for the men’s team, that’s a good moment to move on. Also, we’ve had some big sponsor announcements, and we’ve also got the end of the PRO14
season before we start the Rainbow Cup. So, there’s a natural point there for me to move on.”
Meanwhile, although he will have his work cut out trying to lead Celtic back from the pain of failing to win a historic 10th consecutive league title, McKay is adamant he is not about to turn his back on rugby.
He told The Official Scottish Rugby Podcast: “I’m looking forward to the thrill of
coming to watch a game at Murrayfield and Scotstoun – and enjoying it.
“Because for 13 years there’s been a lot less enjoyment, because you’re worried about the event taking place, I’m worried about the players and the coaches and all the business side of the activities.
“So, getting the chance to come in now and watch the games will just be a real pleasure.”