'Brutal' exit of Man Utd's head of team operations after 30 years met with anger

Manchester United have officially confirmed the departure of Jackie Kay, a long-serving and highly respected staff member, as part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s ongoing restructuring of the club.

Kay, who has been with United for 30 years and most recently served as head of team operations, is the latest casualty of Ratcliffe’s sweeping cost-cutting measures.

Since taking control, the British billionaire has implemented drastic financial reforms, including slashing 250 jobs, parting ways with club legend Sir Alex Ferguson as an ambassador, canceling the annual Christmas party, and removing staff perks.

A further 100 job cuts are reportedly planned, fueling concerns about a growing "culture of fear" among employees.

The news of Kay’s dismissal has been met with shock and dismay within the club. Previously described as “the oil in the machine” at United, her exit has left staff feeling unsettled.

The Times had earlier reported that her sudden and “brutal” departure had stunned those working behind the scenes.

United have now officially addressed the situation. A club spokesperson released a statement acknowledging Kay’s contributions:

“As part of the ongoing restructure of our operations, Jackie Kay is leaving Manchester United after almost 30 years of outstanding service to the club.

Jackie started at Old Trafford in 1995 as an executive assistant during a period of historic success under Sir Alex Ferguson. In 2013, she moved to Carrington, serving a succession of men’s managers—first as an executive assistant and for the past nine years as head of first-team operations.

In all her roles, she has demonstrated unwavering commitment and played a key part in the day-to-day life of Manchester United at Old Trafford, Carrington, and on the road with the team. We thank Jackie for everything she has done for the club and wish her the very best for the future. She will always be welcome at the club.”

Kay was regarded as an integral part of United’s inner workings and was deeply valued by both players and staff. Former United winger Ashley Young previously spoke about her importance within the club, describing her as a maternal figure who kept everything running smoothly.

“She’s just brilliant,” Young said. “She’s like the mum to everyone. If there are any problems or anything we need sorting out, it’s always, ‘Jackie, can you do this?’ or ‘Jackie, can you help with this?’ I’m sure there are times she looks at her phone and thinks, ‘No, I’m not answering,’ but she’s always there for you.”

Kay’s departure is seen as symbolic of the major transformation being undertaken by Ratcliffe and his INEOS team. While the billionaire has insisted that his decisions—however unpopular—are necessary to fix the “mediocre” club he inherited, the impact on staff morale is becoming increasingly evident.