St Mirren vice-chairman Jim Gillespie has revealed his reasons for turning down the chance to become Rangers’ chief executive last summer - and why he's snubbed lucrative offers from English clubs to remain in Paisley since.
Gillespie was approached by Rangers in August as they searched for a replacement for James Bisgrove, but chose to stay loyal to the Buddies and continue his role as CEO of care organisation The Kibble.
Speaking to the Scottish Sun, the 47-year-old stated that although he’s had conversations with other clubs since Rangers, including some tempting offers from down south, his commitment to St Mirren and The Kibble remains strong.
“I've always respected anyone who comes and asks for a conversation or a cup of coffee with you. I've had conversations with other teams since Rangers," Gillespie said.
“Rangers are a massive institution, a great organisation, and ultimately you have those conversations. But I've got an amazing job at Kibble, I need to say that.
“It's rewarding in more than just financial terms to make a difference to the kids that I work with on a daily basis, or the staff I lean on.
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“That’s something special - and obviously I'm now firmly embedded in St Mirren.
“Whether it's Rangers or there's other clubs, you've got to listen. But for the foreseeable future at the moment, my commitments are for The Kibble and St Mirren.
Gillespie admitted the financial packages on offer from English clubs made him think, but family considerations and his passion for his current work kept him in Scotland.
“You get offered jobs from down south and you think, ‘wow, look at the package.’ But I've got two kids and I don’t think I want to stay away from home from them," he added.
