Marvin Bartley Appointed Manager of Livingston FC as David Martindale Transitions to Sporting Director

Marvin Bartley has been appointed as the new manager of Livingston FC, succeeding David Martindale, who has transitioned to the role of sporting director for the Scottish Premiership club.

Martindale’s departure follows a challenging period during which the team has gone winless in their last 24 games, leaving them six points adrift at the bottom of the league table. The only league victory this season was recorded in August, prompting the club to make a managerial change after a 2-0 defeat to Motherwell on Saturday.

Livingston’s current run of 22 games without a league win is comparable to only one other team in the top flight this century—Hamilton, during the 2010-11 season.

Bartley, who previously managed Queen of the South in League One with a record of 25 victories in 61 matches, steps into the role as Martindale recognizes the need for change in light of the team’s struggles.

In a statement, Martindale, 51, emphasized his accountability for the club’s poor performance this season, stating, “I fully understand that change was necessary at the club. I believe Marvin, supported by the staff and players, has the capability to keep us in the league, though I acknowledge the challenge ahead.”

Martindale’s exit comes shortly after he expressed confidence in his position during an interview with BBC Scotland, asserting that he did not fear for his job.

Having joined Livingston as a volunteer in 2014, Martindale was the longest-serving manager in the Premiership, officially taking over in December 2020 after a caretaker stint. He led the club to a top-six finish in his debut season and narrowly missed the top half in the following two campaigns. After facing relegation in the 2023-24 season, Martindale successfully guided Livingston back to the Premiership through the play-offs and secured their first cup title in eight years with a victory over Queen’s Park in the SPFL Trust Trophy final.

Chairman Calvin Ford praised Martindale’s loyalty and passion for the club, stating, “Davie’s dedication and mentality exemplify what an owner desires in a first team manager. I am excited to have him remain as sporting director.”

Ford expressed confidence in Bartley’s readiness for the managerial role, stating, “His experience with Davie and at Queen of the South made the decision to appoint him as Davie’s successor an easy one. I look forward to seeing Marvin achieve the best from our players.”