Heart of Midlothian chief executive Andrew McKinlay has been crowned SPFL CEO of the Year. 

McKinlay became a member of the Hearts board in 2020, after serving in roles at the Scottish FA and Scottish Golf.

His contributions have been instrumental in guiding the club back to the top-flight and navigating recent European campaigns.

That had work has ensured he scooped the illustrious prize for the second time at the Football Business Awards, having also been triumphant in 2022. 

Established in 2012, the Football Business Awards honours excellence in the football industry and acknowledges the significant impact of endeavors conducted off the field.

The judging panel, made up of chief executives from Premier League clubs, grassroots organisations, and national associations, evaluates contenders across various categories.

This assembly of experts then assesses nominees based on their proficiency in business, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and football governance.

READ MORE: What Hearts should be spending their £5m European riches on

McKinlay has has earned commendation from his peers for his outstanding performance in Scottish football, standing out as a leader in his sector. And he will learn whether he has been named the overall United Kingdom CEO of the Year at the Football Business Awards ceremony in London later this month.

Hearts are almost certain to finish third in the Scottish Premiership this season, with the boards decision to allow head coach Steven Naismith to build a squad, paying off.

While, they recorded record turnover of £20.8million, the highest outside Rangers and Celtic, throughout the last financial period - proving things are going in a positive trajectory both at boardroom level and among the playing staff.