Hearts chief lands major role with Scottish FA as Tynecastle duties to be combined with Hampden post

McKinlay will perform his new duties at the national association alongside his current role with the Jambos, which he has held since August 2020.

He was appointed to the Scottish FA Board back in 2023 and replaces the outgoing Les Gray, who stepped down in September after 30 years in football governance.

“It’s a great honour for me to accept the Vice President’s role with the Scottish FA," McKinlay said. “Both the domestic and international scenes in Scotland are thriving, and it’s an exciting time to be involved on both fronts.

“While there is a lot to look forward to at the Scottish FA, I am equally enthralled to be continuing the important work that’s going on during this special period for Heart of Midlothian.”

McKinlay had been serving as interim SFA vice-chairman since the departure of Gray and will now take on the role permanently, supporting chairman Mike Mulraney.

McKinlay is a former COO, director of governance and regulation, and interim CEO of the Hampden body. He also spent two years as CEO of Scottish Golf prior to joining Hearts.

"I have had the privilege of being involved with the Scottish FA - and Scottish football more widely - for almost 15 years and I am grateful to the membership for placing their trust in me to represent them as Vice President," McKinlay added.

"Under the leadership of Mike Mulraney and the board there is a clear direction of travel to harness the power of Scottish football, through initiatives such as Pitching In and Extra Time, as well as ensuring continued growth of the girls' and women's game and, of course, providing a tangible legacy for the game following successive qualifications for the men's UEFA EURO and FIFA World Cup.

"I am excited by the prospect of supporting those key objectives along with my board colleagues, members clubs, and the association's executive team."