The Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL) has appointed former Boots executive Elizabeth Fagan as chair, coinciding with record-breaking financial results.
Ms Fagan succeeds Mary Galbraith, who stepped down at the end of last season.
A recipient of a CBE for services to gender equality in business, Ms Fagan has held senior executive and non-executive roles.
She joined Boots in 1983 and between 2016 and 2018 she was the first female managing director of Boots UK, later becoming UK chair. Her name was mentioned among the early contenders to replace Lord Smith when he stood down as chair of Scottish Enterprise in 2022.
She was also chair of D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, board member of The Office for Students and is currently a board member of Brambles, an ASX listed company.
“I am honoured to take on the role of chair at such an exciting time for the Scottish Women’s Premier League. The growth of the women’s game in Scotland has been extraordinary, and I’m committed to building on that momentum.
“Together with our clubs, players, and supporters, we will continue to elevate the profile of women’s football, champion equality, and create lasting opportunities for future generations.
“This is more than sport – it’s a movement.”
The SWPL’s third annual accounts reveal a landmark year for the league, with total payments to clubs reaching £549,000 – an increase of 41% compared to the previous year. Of this, £449,000 was distributed through club fee payments, while £100,000 was awarded as prize money via the Sky Sports Cup.
The league’s turnover also surpassed £1.1 million, marking the first time it has exceeded the £1 million threshold.
This growth has been driven by increased broadcast income and the sale of overseas rights, including enhanced revenue from the SWPL’s contract with Sky Sports and the new five-season agreement with StatsPerform for international watch-and-bet rights.
Fiona McIntyre, SWPL managing director, said Ms Fagan’s “leadership, experience, and passion for the women’s game will be instrumental as we continue to grow and strengthen the league.
“This appointment marks an exciting new chapter, and I look forward to working closely with Elizabeth to build on the progress we’ve made and to continue to drive forward our shared vision for the future of women’s football in Scotland.”
She said the record figures have been underpinned by the strength of the SWPL’s commercial partnerships.
“As title sponsor, ScottishPower has played a pivotal role in supporting the league’s development
since taking over from inaugural sponsor Park’s Motor Group, ahead of the 2023/24 season. Park’s Motor Group remains a valued partner, alongside official match ball provider PUMA. InspireSport also joined the SWPL’s growing roster of partners during the 2024/25 season.
“Broadcast partners Sky Sports, BBC ALBA, and BBC Scotland have been instrumental in driving
both financial growth and visibility for the league. Their support is reflected not only in the financial results but also in rising viewership, with over 2.4 million people tuning in to watch SWPL matches online or on television last season.
“With the appointment of Elizabeth as chair and the continued support of our new and existing
partners, the SWPL is exceptionally well-positioned for the 2025/26 season and the years ahead.”
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