It has been confirmed by Wolves that Nathan Shi has become the club’s executive chairman on a permanent basis.
The club took to their social channels last night to inform supporters that Nathan Shi is here to stay, having been in the role on an interim basis since he replaced Jeff Shi at Christmas.
There has been some shock for some fans about this on social media.
What do you make of the decision to make Nathan Shi the permanent executive chairman? 🤔
Has he convinced you so far that he's the right man for the job?
But from the outset, it had been suggested that there was a chance he’d get the job on permanent basis.
There has also been criticism of the move.
That criticism is understandable, because ultimately Shi lacks experience, which is far from ideal given the gravity of the situation.
- READ MORE: Three key questions Rob Edwards, Matt Jackson & Nathan Shi must answer at Wolves fans forum
Wolves have taken a major risk appointing Nathan Shi permanently
While Shi has done some positive things since he came on the scene, many have hoped that Wolves would appoint someone else on a permanent basis.
Shi has communicated fairly well so far and tried to be accountable, and he has ensured that season ticket prices are reduced for next season.
That has been appreciated by some.
But the fact of the matter is this; Wolves are facing their biggest summer in many, many years – potentially ever – after being relegated from the Premier League.
A huge amount of work is going to be required to ensure that Wolves are as prepared as possible for the 2026/27, which needs to end in promotion back to the Premier League.
Shi is now the key decision-maker at Molineux, so he’ll be signing off on recruitment decisions, of which there will be many.
Lots of the current squad will be departing, leaving many holes that need filling by new players.
If Wolves don’t get it right, there is every chance the club will be fighting at the wrong end of the table.
To keep Shi in the role is a huge risk, because he lacks experience of working in football.
He does have extensive experience in the development of Fosun’s core business segments, with a strong track record in project execution, operational management, and resource integration.
But this is his first time in a football environment, and many will question whether just six months at Molineux is enough exposure to make him the right man to oversee a rebuild this summer.
It’s not a slight of Shi. He’s said good things so far, tried to be accountable and seems like someone who wants to help. And by several accounts, Shi has also impressed behind the scenes.
But ultimately he answers to Fosun, so whether he’ll actually be allowed to do certain things is enough question.
What Nathan Shi said after permanent chairman appointment
As part of the announcement last night, Wolves published quotes from Shi, who said (via Wolves official): “I am honoured to take on this role permanently and fully understand the responsibility it brings, particularly at a time like this for the club.
“Since arriving, I have spent time listening, learning and building a clear picture of where we are and what needs to improve. That work continues and provides a strong foundation for what comes next.
“Our focus now is on strengthening the club, building momentum and creating a team and environment that our supporters can be proud of.”
He will supposedly ‘continue to lead the club’s strategic direction and day-to-day operations’.
With the Fans’ Forum taking place tonight, Shi will ideally be able to shed more light on his vision for getting Wolves back into the top-flight, and make some people feel a bit better about this undoubtedly risky appointment.
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