Denise Barrett-Baxendale - Former Chief Executive Officer

Denise joined Everton in 2010 as Chief Executive of Everton in the Community and also became the Club’s Chief Operating Officer in 2011, with responsibility for the HR, ICT, Stadium Operations and Stadium Safety and Security teams.

Since 2013, when she was appointed as Deputy Chief Executive, she has worked closely with the Chief Executive and Board of Directors to develop and implement a number of the Club’s off-the-field strategies.

In 2014, Denise was named a Member of the Order of the British Empire in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for services to the community of Merseyside.

In July 2017, Denise was recognised for her “outstanding contribution to charity and community engagement in Liverpool” by receiving an Honorary Fellowship at Liverpool John Moores University.

Bill Kenwright stated that “Over the last six years, Denise has brought energy and tenacity to both the Club and the Charity."

"She has transformed Everton in the Community – making it one of the most respected sports charities in the world and, most importantly, led initiatives that have changed and saved lives across the city."

"Working with Robert Elstone, Denise has also played a significant role in some of the Club’s most important projects; projects that are not always seen from the outside but have helped put us in the strong position we are in today."

“Put simply, Denise embodies Everton."

"She embodies the People’s Club."

To have her on the Board just makes perfect sense."

Professor Denise Barrett-Baxendale took over from Robert Elstone as Everton’s Chief Executive Officer on 1 June 2018

On her promotion to the Chief Executive Officer role, Professor Barrett-Baxendale said: “I am so proud to be given this opportunity and grateful for the support of the Chairman, Board of Directors and Mr Moshiri. I fully understand the privileged position that I will be taking up and the responsibilities that come with it.

This is a great Club – footballing royalty - with the best, most committed fans and I can assure every single Evertonian that I am completely committed to driving our Club forward and making the most of the opportunities that we have. I know what the priorities are and I’m determined that we make progress in these areas.

It’s also important to me that we make our progress in the right way - in the ‘Everton way’ - and this includes listening, consulting and collaborating on all important Club matters.”

In April 2019, Denise was appointed Deputy Lieutenant of Merseyside. The voluntary position will see Denise Barrett-Baxendale working alongside other Deputy Lieutenants in assisting Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant Mr Mark Blundell in carrying out his role as The Queen’s Personal Representative in the County.

On Friday 28th July 2019, Denise received an Outstanding Contribution to Merseyside award.

She then went on to be recognised with the 'Chairman's Blueblood Award' in the award ceremony following the 2019-20 campaign.