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Phil Parkinson has expressed his pleasure at seeing Shaun Harvey return to a more hands-on role as Wrexham's acting chief executive officer.
Harvey initially joined Wrexham's executive board as an advisor following Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds' takeover in 2021, playing a pivotal role during the club's ascent from the National League. The former EFL chief executive stepped back from a football-facing position over the summer, transitioning to a non-executive director role with an emphasis on boardroom affairs.
The 56-year-old now serves as acting CEO following the unexpected departure of Michael Williamson on Friday. Any permanent appointment will require approval from the Independent Football Regulator. Harvey is being considered for the role on a permanent basis and appears to be a highly favored candidate among the Wrexham fanbase.
Parkinson Reacts to Harvey's Return
Harvey received a standing ovation from sections of the Mold Road Stand as he made his way to his seat in the owners' box during the opening minutes of the weekend's draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Parkinson had little to say regarding Williamson's sudden exit on the eve of the fixture, but made clear his enthusiasm for Harvey's return to a more active role at the club.
"Ryan [Reynolds] spoke to me yesterday morning to share the news," Parkinson told Sports Illustrated. "My focus has really just been on the match itself.
"I had a brief conversation with Shaun Harvey this morning. Shaun is back in a more official capacity, though he has always been around. He has been here from the very beginning. He has been a significant figure — he understands everything about this club because he was one of the key individuals who helped launch this journey alongside the owners."
McElhenney and Reynolds were both in attendance for the draw with Wolves, marking their first trip to North Wales since they watched their side earn the same result against Watford back in August. Their presence generated considerable excitement around the Racecourse Ground, with Parkinson fully aware of the tremendous boost they continue to provide the club.
He added: "I had a great conversation with Rob and Ryan. It's always very energizing for the people who work at the club, the players and the staff, when Rob and Ryan come over. The crowd is lifted too by having the owners in town. I stay in touch with them when they're back in the States, but it's great to sit down with them when they make the trip over.
"Whatever division we've been in, whenever Rob and Ryan have been here, I think it means a lot for the players to witness their connection with the club — how much they care, how closely they follow the games from afar, their sense of when people need a boost or a bit of encouragement. Since day one, we've been in this together. I always say that when we've done well and earned promotion — how everyone at this club shares this incredible sense of unity, and that starts right at the very top."