Hibs Chairman Shares Vision for Easter Road Revival
Ian Gordon has made his ambitions for Hibernian clear, outlining a roadmap for improvement while highlighting a growing partnership with Black Knight Football Club.
Following a strong end to the season that saw David Gray’s side secure third place in the Premiership, the Easter Road chief is optimistic about the club’s direction. With Europa League second-round qualifiers on the horizon in July, preparations are underway with players set to return for pre-season ahead of schedule — and transfer activity expected soon.
After Nick Montgomery’s dismissal last year, club legend Gray was appointed as head coach. Despite a turbulent start, including an early Premier Sports Cup exit to Kelty Hearts, the club has shown resilience. At the time, Black Knight leader Bill Foley remarked that greater cooperation between ownership groups would benefit the club: “If the other ownership group at Hibernian listens to us, they will do better.”
Black Knight Football Club, who acquired a 25% share in Hibs in February 2024, also owns AFC Bournemouth, FC Lorient, and Auckland FC. Since their involvement, Hibs have seen President Tim Bezbatchenko join the board. Speaking to The Athletic, Gordon opened up about how the relationship has evolved.
“There was some disagreement over the managerial appointment, but since Tim came on board, he’s brought in several key staff,” Gordon said. “Black Knight is now building out their network here and we’re in daily communication. The most valuable thing has been the shared knowledge and best practices happening behind the scenes. We’ve worked hard to get a strong structure in place, and appointing Dave has turned out to be the right decision.”
The Gordon family has experienced its share of managerial missteps, including the controversial sacking of Jack Ross in December 2021 — just months after he led Hibs to a third-place finish and days before a League Cup final. Reflecting on that decision, Gordon admitted: “We felt a change was needed, but in hindsight, we weren’t prepared with a long-term plan. That’s something we wouldn’t repeat now. Each experience has taught us something.”
After Ron Gordon purchased Hibs in July 2019, his untimely passing in February 2023 at the age of 68 left a deep mark on the club. Now, Ian Gordon is determined to carry on his father’s dream.
“In those final days, my brother and I watched games with my dad by his bedside. We knew his time was short, but he lit up talking about Hibs,” Gordon recalled. “That memory fuels me every day to push forward and make our vision a reality.”
Looking ahead, Gordon’s goals are clear: consistent European football and domestic silverware. “Step one is qualifying for Europe regularly, and from there, we build. We want Hibs to compete every year on the European stage and win multiple trophies. One Scottish Cup in nearly 130 years isn’t enough — this club deserves much more.”
