His journey from the terracing to the boardroom has been characterised by a willingness to take on all challenges offered as the club that he supports moves ever closer to fan ownership.
The announcement on the official site quotes chairman Jim McMahon saying: “I am delighted that Alan has agreed to take up the post of Chief Operating Officer.
'Flow on Supporters' Trust duty 10 years ago - yes, that slip of a boy on the right!
“I have worked with him for a number of years now and no one is more dedicated to the long-term future of this club.
“He will be an excellent addition to the Board of Motherwell Football Club.”
Supporters will take comfort that one of their own will have a greater voice guiding the club. His elevation sits well with the transition in ownership and we have to hope that other clubs will join in the trend of increasing the voice of the grass roots at the top level of the game. The balance between running a business and reflecting the desires of fans is not easy but our new Chief Operating Officer is well placed to make the correct decisions.