The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Multi-tasking chief exec Ferguson ticks all the boxes says Mackay
The fact former midfield dynamo Ferguson, with 220 games played for the club, has been there and done several jobs from the pitch to the boardroom is a real benefit to Mackay.
The Staggies boss said: “Steven has played here and lived here. The academy role is incredibly important, considering the size of our community, so that gives you an even broader thought of it.
“He’s also been jointmanager here (with Stuart Kettlewell), which puts him into my shoes, and he has seen the situations a manager has to deal with.
“He then stepped into the chief executive role at one of the worst times that anyone has had to live through in terms of the Covid pandemic.
“We’re aligned not just in terms of how we believe football should be played, but also how people should approach the life that they lead.
“No one is happier than me he’s got this accolade, because it’s not an easy role. Until you walk in these shoes, people don’t realise some of the things you have to deal with and the fires he must put out on a regular basis.
“That is the role of a chief executive at a football club – you manage so many different stakeholders. The club badge is at the centre of everything.”
Mackay reckons Ferguson possesses all the qualities required to succeed as CEO, with
MacGregor more than happy to trust him in the top role.
He added: “Steven is a huge part of everything this club is trying to achieve. The values of this club are driven by him. I see the hours he puts in and the sacrifices he makes for this club. You can see how much he cares about it.
“Our owner (Roy MacGregor) is an incredibly successful businessman who I’m sure doesn’t suffer fools gladly. I know there is a very close relationship there in terms of trust (between the two). The club is in Steven’s hands with Roy.
“Steven understands and gets our community and gets the journey this club is on and what it means to the Highlands and the people and the supporters of Ross County.
“That’s a great thing when you have someone as committed with a real steely determination and drive. He’s been a professional footballer at the top level. He has the will to win, but he also has real emotional intelligence.
“He brings people together, rather than pushes them away. That’s a great trait to have.”
Mackay’s focus, meanwhile, is preparing his team for Saturday’s Premiership clash at Motherwell. Wins against Livingston and Dundee United have lifted the Dingwall club two points clear of bottom spot.