Sunderland chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus _(Image: PA)_
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
SUNDERLAND have confirmed the departure of non-executive director David Jones with immediate effect.
Jones has held an advisory position at the club since December 2019, with the [Black Cats](http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/football/sunderland) saying the lifelong supporter has provided "valuable insights and support to the club's business and football operations".
He has been involved with the club during what has been a transformation on and off the pitch, with Sunderland rising from League One back to the Premier League.
**RECOMMENDED READING:**
Kyril Louis-Dreyfus said: “David’s counsel and support have been greatly appreciated throughout my time at the club.
"His contribution has been significant in our journey to the Premier League, and his passion for Sunderland AFC has been constant.
"He will always be welcome at the Stadium of Light, and on behalf of everyone at SAFC, I thank him for his efforts and wish him well for the future.”
Jones said: “It has been one of the great honours of my life to serve on the board of Sunderland AFC for so long.
"At such an exciting time, this has been an agonising decision, but after a summer of reflection, it feels like the right time to step away with the club’s journey back to the Premier League complete.
"Sunderland is in great hands, and I want to thank the leadership team who’ve tolerated my questions and opinions over the last six years.
"On and off the field, the club is unrecognisable from the one I joined in League One, and I can’t wait to see the continued progress in the weeks and months ahead.”
The Black Cats said in a statement: "All at Sunderland AFC thank David for his contribution and wish him the very best for the future."