Raith Rovers takeover confirmed as former Kelty Hearts chiefs secure controlling stake

The new consortium comprises of Dean Mckenzie, Colin Smart, Ruaridh Kilgour, Andrew Barrowman, Steven MacDonald, and Allan Halliday

By Alan Temple

May 5 2023, 12:02pm

A consortium has bought a controlling stake in Raith Roves. Image: Tony Fimister

A local consortium including former Kelty Hearts chiefs Dean Mckenzie and Andrew Barrowman have purchased a controlling stake in Raith Rovers.

The new directors take ownership from John Sim following “an extensive period of due diligence on both sides of the agreement”.

The other individuals in the group are Colin Smart, Ruaridh Kilgour, Allan Halliday and current chairman Steven MacDonald.

We have a board of dynamic and motivated professionals who are committed to re-energising the club at all levels.

Dean McKenzie

A club statement lauded the incoming owners’ “extensive business and football leadership experience.”

Rovers have been seeking fresh investment for several months following candid financial warnings from Sim.

John Sim (back row, middle) had been seeking fresh investment at Raith Rovers. Image: SNS.

Mckenzie served as Kelty Hearts’ general manager during their rise from the Lowland League to League One, before stepping down last month ahead of the completion of this deal.

Barrowman was sporting director at New Central Park, while former Kelty boss John Potter is expected to have a role within a revamped structure in Kirkcaldy.

“Dynamic and motivated”

Mckenzie told Raith’s official website: “We are pleased to complete the acquisition of a controlling stake in the club and look forward to an exciting journey towards a more prosperous future at all levels of this great club.

Andrew Barrowman has built plenty of experience at Kelty Hearts and, prior to that, working for sportswear firm Joma. Image: SNS

“We have a board of dynamic and motivated professionals who are committed to re-energising the club at all levels, harnessing and adding to our loyal fan base and bringing success, pride and happiness to the local community.

“We will shortly outline our plans and wish to make this journey a collaborative one, ensuring Raith Rovers Football Club is the beating heart of the community.”