Golspie-based Rod Houston, the former president of the Scottish Schools FA, is to succeed John Grant as Highland League secretary.
Houston, 64, is steeped in the game, both on and off the pitch. He ran the Highland Football Academy for six years since its opening in 2005, managed Highland League clubs Brora Rangers and Clach and is secretary of the North of Scotland FA as well as honorary vice-president of the Scottish Schools FA.
Houston said: “One of the challenges we face is the Highland League’s sustainability.
“We have had clubs struggling in the past and we need to adjust fully to the changes brought in by the pyramid system in Scotland.
“I have obviously had very close ties with the Highland League as manager of both Clach and Brora, something I enjoyed immensely.
“The role of Highland League secretary is a demanding one but it is a demand I am quite happy to have placed on me.”
Highland League president Dennis Bridgeford is delighted to have Houston onboard.
He said: “The experience Rod has will help to guide us through the next few years.
“There is so much going on, including changes at the SFA, where Rod is a well-known figure, which filters down to our level.
“Rod is not only a very good administrator and we felt we just couldn’t go past someone with his experience in the game.
“He may be 64 but I don’t see this as a short-term appointment.
“With his involvement in Scottish schools football, in Highland League management, and, of course, at the Highland Football Academy, there is no doubt Rod is a great fit for the job.”
Outgoing secretary Grant, has served in the post for the last 40 years, will hand over the reins at the end of this season.
He said: “The Highland League has found a worthy successor for my post.
“Rod has vast experience in the game of football, both as an administrator and a coach, so he is going to be a safe pair of hands.”