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FC Halifax Town have appointed Buxton boss John McGrath as their new manager after the 44-year-old guided the Bucks to back-to-back National League North play-off campaigns.
McGrath leaves Silverlands after two successful seasons in charge, having helped establish Buxton as a competitive National League North side while overseeing the club’s transition to full-time football.
The former Republic of Ireland under-21 international steered Buxton to seventh place in his first season, before improving to fifth last term as the Derbyshire side reached the play-off semi-finals. Along the way, the Bucks also enjoyed an impressive FA Cup run to the second round.
Buxton chairman David Hopkins admitted the club were disappointed to lose McGrath and assistant Pablo Mills, but said the move was recognition of the work they had done.
“As First Team Manager, John has represented this football club with tremendous professionalism and integrity,” Hopkins said.
McGrath said leaving Buxton had been a difficult decision after two memorable years at the club.
“It has been a privilege to manage this football club and work with such a fantastic group of players, staff, volunteers and supporters,” he said.
“This was not an easy decision, but I feel the time is right to take on a new challenge.”
He also thanked the club’s supporters, adding: “To the Railway End — thank you for making my two years at the club as enjoyable as they were.”
McGrath now steps up to the National League with Halifax, who finished 11th last season after missing out on the play-offs by four points. He replaces Adam Lakeland, who left to take over from Jim Bentley at National League North newcomers Morecambe.
Before moving into management with Mickleover, he enjoyed a lengthy playing career which included promotions with Doncaster Rovers, Weymouth and Burton Albion, while also making almost 200 Football League appearances.
Halifax said McGrath brings “a wealth of experience” from both the EFL and non-league game as they look to push back towards the National League play-off places next season.
Buxton have confirmed an announcement on their next manager will be made “as soon as possible”.