Mark Watts

Mark Watts

Marc Watts, a distinguished figure in the business world, currently serves as the Executive Chairman of Everton Football Club. His appointment followed The Friedkin Group’s acquisition of the club in December 2024, marking a new chapter in Everton’s storied history.

As President of The Friedkin Group, Watts has played a pivotal role in overseeing a diverse portfolio of companies spanning the automotive, hospitality, entertainment, and adventure industries. His strategic vision and leadership have been instrumental in driving growth and innovation across these sectors.

In his open letter to Everton supporters upon his appointment, Watts expressed a deep commitment to the club’s legacy and future aspirations. He acknowledged the resilience and dedication of the Everton community during challenging times and emphasized a collective ambition to restore the club to its esteemed position in English football.

Under Watts’ leadership, there is a renewed focus on ambition and professionalism, aiming to usher Everton into a new era of success. His extensive experience and dedication to excellence are seen as vital assets in guiding the club toward achieving its goals.

Everton Football Club

Everton Football Club, founded in 1878, is one of the oldest and most storied clubs in English football history. Originally known as St. Domingo’s FC, the club was renamed Everton in 1879, taking its name from the district in Liverpool where it was based. Everton was a founding member of the Football League in 1888 and won its first league title in 1891. The club’s home ground, Goodison Park, has been its base since 1892, making it one of the oldest purpose-built football stadiums in the world. Over the years, Everton has enjoyed significant success, particularly during the pre-war era and the mid-1980s. The club has won the English top division nine times, the FA Cup five times, and the European Cup Winners’ Cup once, in 1985, under the management of Howard Kendall.

Throughout its history, Everton has been renowned for its youth development and nurturing of talent, contributing significantly to the England national team. Players like Dixie Dean, who scored a record 60 league goals in the 1927-28 season, and modern stars like Wayne Rooney, who began his illustrious career at Everton, highlight the club’s commitment to developing footballing talent. The club’s motto, “Nil Satis Nisi Optimum” (Nothing but the best is good enough), reflects its ambitions and standards. Despite facing challenges and fluctuating fortunes in recent decades, Everton remains a prominent and respected club in English football, with a passionate fan base and a commitment to returning to the pinnacle of the sport.