John MacMillan MBE Joins Hibernian Community Foundation As Managing Director

Hibernian Community Foundation is excited to announce the appointment of John MacMillan MBE as their new Managing Director.

John officially begins his role today (Tuesday March 24), bringing with him a wealth of experience across the charitable and public sectors, including 10 years leading high-performing charitable organisations.

He joins from the Eric Liddell Community, where he served as Chief Executive Officer for almost a decade. During that time, he developed strong strategic partnerships, enhanced financial sustainability and led the organisation through a period of growth.

Prior to this, John held senior roles within South Ayrshire Council and Dumfries and Galloway Council, building extensive experience in leadership, service delivery, and community engagement.

John’s contribution to community development was recognised in the 2026 New Year Honours, where he was awarded an MBE.

In his new position, John will oversee the Foundation’s core operations, including governance, communications and fundraising, while leading the delivery of its long-term strategy and strengthening alignment with the Football Club.

Speaking ahead of starting his new role, John said: “I am really excited to get started with the Foundation and lead a great team that deliver incredibly important projects and programmes.

“I’m ready to bring with me know-how from a decade working in the third-sector, and even more within the public-sector, to lead the next chapter for the Foundation. There is so much to look forward to, I’m really pleased to be here and ready to begin.”

Hibernian FC Executive Chairman, Ian Gordon added: “John is another great addition for The Hibernian Community Foundation and he is joining at a really exciting time for both the charity and the Football Club.

"As a Club, we’re proud to have a foundation that does so much positive and impactful work to benefit the local community of Leith and the wider area of Edinburgh.

"We are all looking forward to working closely with John and his team to continue that important work and support some of their exciting new events, programmes and initiatives moving forward."

John recently attended the Foundation’s designated matchday at Easter Road, shining a light on some of the key staff members, volunteers and the significant work the Community Foundation implement all year round.

Chair of the HCF Board, Steve Smith, commented: “It was great to have John at the match recently so he could see the reach of the Foundation and scale how much it means to the Hibernian community.

“We think John’s experience positions him exceptionally well to lead the team and drive the Foundation forward. His experience is deep and varied, and we see him as the perfect fit.”

Away from his professional work, he has a strong sporting background, including coaching youth basketball and football, and currently serves on the board of Disability Snowsport UK.

Everyone at Hibernian Community Foundation and Hibernian FC welcomes John to the Club and wishes him every success in his new role.