Richard Monks to lead new watchdog
The newly formed Independent Football Regulator (IFR) has appointed Richard Monks as its first Chief Executive Officer, marking a major milestone in the government’s plan to reform football governance in England.
Monks brings nearly 20 years of financial and regulatory experience to the role, having previously served as a partner at EY and as Director of Strategy at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), where he helped design key financial oversight frameworks.
Bringing financial rigour to football
IFR Chair David Kogan said Monks’ appointment demonstrated that the regulator “is hitting the ground running”.
“Richard brings extensive financial and regulatory clout to the IFR,” he said. “We are drawing on knowledge from the worlds of regulation and football, and Richard will build on this as he develops our executive and regulatory skills.”
The IFR was created under the Football Governance Act, which followed the Fan-Led Review of Football Governance launched after the collapse of Bury FC and the failed European Super League proposals. Its purpose is to ensure greater financial stability, transparency and accountability across English football – particularly within the men’s professional leagues.
Reforming the football pyramid
Monks’ regulatory background will play a central role in implementing the IFR’s new oversight regime, designed to protect clubs, fans and the integrity of the game.
During his time at the FCA, Monks oversaw major reform projects including Brexit transition work, investment firm regulation and the creation of the Senior Managers and Certification Regime – designed to improve accountability in financial services.
He also advised the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on the financial frameworks underpinning the new football regulation model.
Focus on fans and financial fairness
Monks said he was “delighted” to take on the role:
“My full focus will be on building the organisation and regulatory regime that delivers the right result for the football pyramid and its millions of fans, while supporting clubs throughout the process,” he said.
Over the coming months, the IFR will begin public consultations on its policies and rules, seeking feedback from clubs, leagues, supporters’ trusts and other stakeholders ahead of full implementation.
The appointment of Monks – combining financial expertise with football reform experience – is being seen as a key step in turning the IFR from legislation into a functioning, independent regulator ready to shape the future of the English game.
