Adam Pearson has stepped down as Derby's football chairman after two years with the club.

Pearson, who was originally the club's executive chairman after taking over at Pride Park in October 2007, has cited the need to pursue "new challenges" as a key reason behind his decision.

Pearson will be replaced by Tom Glick, who is the club's chief executive and president.

Pearson, who had previously been with Leeds and Hull, took charge of Derby when he bought out majority shareholder Peter Gadsby.

During his time with the club, he oversaw the managerial reigns of Billy Davies and Paul Jewell, while he was also responsible for the appointment of current boss Nigel Clough.

Off the field, the 44-year-old was heavily involved in the deal that saw Derby taken over by an international investment group led by General Sports and Entertainment.

"Surprising as it may seem, I have thoroughly enjoyed the two years I have spent at Derby County, despite not achieving the playing success on the pitch we had all hoped for and worked so hard for in that time," Pearson said.

"It has been an absolute pleasure and privilege to work with Nigel Clough over the past 10 months. He is a manager in whom the supporters and board can totally trust with the future of their club.

"I would like to thank Andy Appleby and the board for all their support over the last two years and also the rest of the investor group who have been so supportive and enthusiastic towards myself and the club."

Appleby, who is the overall chairman of the club added that Pearson "can be very proud of the contribution he has made to Derby County and the enormous personal effort he has invested in putting the club on a stable footing".