John McClelland (businessman)
John Ferguson McClelland | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1945 Glasgow, Scotland |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, Business executive |
| Years active | 35 years in global electronics sector |
| Known for | Former chairman of Rangers F.C. |
John Ferguson McClelland, CBE, FRSE, FRSA (born 1945 in Glasgow), is a Scottish entrepreneur and former chairman of Rangers F.C.
Business career
With a career spanning 35 years in the global electronics sector, McClelland held prominent executive positions across various multinational companies, gaining extensive international experience. During his tenure at IBM, he was vice president responsible for worldwide operations within the personal computer division. In 1995, he transitioned to Digital Equipment Corporation as senior vice president, managing all aspects of their global operations.
Subsequently, he took on the role of Global Chief Industrial Officer at Philips Consumer Electronics, followed by a corporate officer and president position at 3Com Corporation, where he led the Business Networks Company. McClelland also chaired the Scottish Further and Higher Education Funding Council and directed the Technology and Innovation Committee for the CBI.
Recognized as an expert in procurement and supply chain management, McClelland has been influential in these fields. In 2006, he undertook a review of public sector procurement for the Scottish Government, which became the basis for significant reforms still being implemented. Additionally, as Chairman of NQC Limited, he advised the Welsh Assembly Government on enhancing procurement practices and continues to contribute to procurement strategy initiatives across the United Kingdom.
Director of Rangers FC
McClelland joined the board of directors at Rangers Football Club in October 2000 and was promoted to vice-chairman in November 2001. Between 2002 and 2004, he held the combined roles of CEO and chairman as Executive Chairman, succeeding David Murray, who returned in 2004 to oversee a new share issue.
In July 2008, he was appointed vice-chairperson of the European Club Association, serving alongside Joan Laporta (Barcelona) and Umberto Gandini (AC Milan).
On 17 October 2011, both McClelland and John Greig resigned from their non-executive director positions following Craig Whyte’s acquisition of Rangers, citing feelings of exclusion after the change in ownership.
Personal life
In recognition of his contributions to industry and education, McClelland was awarded a CBE in 1994. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 1995 and held the position of Vice-President from 2009 until 2012. He is also designated a Companion of the Institute of Management.