May 26 2025 Stuart Kettlewell appointed as Kilmarnock manager
Kilmarnock Football Club is delighted to confirm the appointment of Stuart Kettlewell as the club’s new first-team manager.
Stuart joins the club with immediate effect on a two-year deal and will take charge of all first-team matters as we prepare for the upcoming season.
With a wealth of experience in Scottish football, both as a player and manager, Stuart brings strong leadership and a clear footballing philosophy to Rugby Park.
Guiding Motherwell to Hampden last season and sitting top-six all season until he departed, Stuart has a clear pedigree at this level.
Stuart gave numerous academy graduates their first-team debuts as both Ross County and Motherwell manager, and as a manager gave the most minutes to Under 21 players in the Scottish Premiership this season before he departed Motherwell.
A statement from the Kilmarnock FC board of directors reads: “The club conducted a thorough recruitment process, where we were looking for a candidate who has a track record in recruiting and developing players, including young talent and has a strong understanding of Scottish football. We identified Stuart as the best candidate to lead Kilmarnock into an exciting new chapter.
Stuart’s experiences, paired with the above, fits our vision and desires for the future of Kilmarnock.”
Preparations for pre-season are already underway, and Stuart will begin working closely with the playing squad and staff.
Stuart will be assisted by Stephen Frail – Chris Burke and Craig Clark will complete the coaching staff.
We are sure that our fans will join us in welcoming Stuart and Stephen to Kilmarnock and look forward to the journey ahead under his guidance, with Rory McKenzie’s Testimonial Match and the League Cup stages due to commence in July.
