Gerry Mallon, chairman of the Foundation of Hearts, stated that she left a “remarkable legacy”. Budge has played a significant part in Hearts’ evolution over the last decade. She was an important presence when Foundation of Hearts sought to acquire ownership of the club, and her £2.5 million contribution helped the club get back on its feet.

She held the club until August 2021, when a transfer occurred, and the Foundation of Hearts became the majority shareholder.

When Andrew McKinlay was appointed as chief executive, Budge was promoted to chairman of the club. In recent years, she has led off-field developments like as the new stand and hotel within it. “This is something I have thought long and hard about,” she told me.

“Having reviewed this with the Board, I believe now is the appropriate moment to confirm my intention to stand down later this year. “When I originally joined the Foundation of Hearts in 2013, I had no idea where it would lead me. Initially, the goal was to stabilise the Club before considering growth.

Now, 12 years later, as I look at where the club is, I can allow myself to be proud of what we have accomplished. “With Tony Bloom’s investment completed and the supporters entrenched as caretakers of the club, I believe I have accomplished my goals.

“The appropriate time for reminiscing and saying goodbye will come after the AGM in December but until then, my full focus will remain on what it has always been, and that is doing my very best for Hearts and our fans.”

McKinlay stated that he will develop succession plans in the future and thanked Budge for her contributions to Hearts. “It cannot be overstated just how much Ann has done for Heart of Midlothian and on behalf of everyone at the club, I extend both my thanks and my gratitude,” he told reporters.

“As the December AGM approaches, we will provide an update to our supporters on our succession preparations. But for the time being, we will continue to enjoy and profit from working with Ann until she leaves her position as Chair of the club.”
Mallon added: “Ann will leave a remarkable legacy when she departs the club and we are extremely fortunate to have had 12 years of her knowledge and experience at the helm of Hearts.

“Her role in the development of the Foundation of Hearts, in particular, should not be underestimated. Neither can the pivotal role she played in rescuing the club from obscurity and propelling it back to the pinnacle of Scottish football.

“For that, I will be forever grateful to Ann, as I’m sure Hearts fans everywhere will be too.”

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