Gillingham's chief executive Tom Lawrence has left the club and joined non-league Southend United.

Lawrence, 42, had been the CEO and chief legal officer of the Gills between February 2019 and May 2021, having previously worked for SA Law, who helped the club win their legal battle with former caterers Centerplate.

But after over two years with the Gills he has decided to take on a new challenge with a club who have just been relegated from the Football League and one who he is a supporter of.

He told the Southend club’s media: “I’m delighted to have joined the club that I have supported since I was a child.

"Following the disappointment of last season, there is now a swell of positivity building at the club - the future is bright.

"With supporters back in the stadium next season and a blueprint for success in place, the return to league football is our first target. A target that I believe can be achieved at the first time of asking.

"My initial conversations with Phil and Ricky have been very positive and I am looking forward to working with them, together with Rhys and the commercial team, to deliver success on and off the field.

"My introduction will free Ron up to focus on the Fossetts Farm project - that project will be game changing for us. This really is the start of a very exciting period for the club.

"I’d like to thank Ron for the opportunity and Stan [Collymore] for the backing he has given me. I can’t wait to get started!"

Gills commented on his departure, saying: "The parting is amicable on both sides and Tom will be pursuing his legal career with his new company and will also be acting as CEO at Southend United.

"Tom will be retained by GFC to handle our own legal work.

"We are very pleased to be able to come to this agreement. Tom has been an excellent servant to the club and this new relationship is in the best interests of all parties.

"We thank Tom for his services and we wish him every success in his new roles."

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