Northern Premier League appoints Martin Thacker MBE as independent chair
The Northern Premier League is pleased to announce the appointment of Martin Thacker MBE as its new independent chair, with effect from 1 November 2026.
Martin brings extensive experience in football administration, governance, business leadership and public service. His appointment follows an extensive recruitment process, which attracted a strong field of candidates.
Martin is currently a director of the National League, a trustee of the National League Community Trust and a member of the National League Academy. He will relinquish these positions upon taking up his new role with the NPL.
His experience within football includes serving as a director and vice-chairman of Chesterfield FC, as well as involvement in community football and football governance. He also brings considerable experience from senior leadership roles in local government, education and the charitable sector.
The appointment follows a recruitment process overseen by the NPL Nominations Committee, with candidates interviewed by a panel comprising representatives from the NPL, the Isthmian League and the Southern League.
Following the interviews, Martin was unanimously recommended as the preferred candidate.
Martin Thacker said: “I feel honoured to take up the role of independent chair of the Northern Premier League.
"As a key part of the National League System, the league carries important responsibilities to its 88 member clubs, and I look forward to working closely with the board, the executive and our clubs as we support the league’s ongoing development together.
I am committed to building on the strong foundations already laid that includes strengthening governance, progressing the League’s strategic objectives and ensuring that the interests and experiences of our Member Clubs continue to shape and guide the Board’s work.”
Angie Firth, CEO, said: "We are delighted to welcome Martin to the Northern Premier League.
"His extensive experience of football governance, combined with his wider leadership and board experience, will be a valuable addition to the league.
“The recruitment process attracted a strong field, and Martin impressed the interview panel with his experience, understanding and approach. We look forward to working with him as we continue to develop the league and deliver our strategic priorities.”
Martin will formally take up the position on 1 November 2026, succeeding the previous chair and leading the NPL board in its work with the league's 88 member clubs across its four divisions.