Brentford have announced the death of Robert Rowan, the club’s technical director, at the age of 28.

Rowan, who was born in Fife and started his career as a scout for Celtic, had been with Brentford since late 2014 and was appointed as the head of football operations in the summer of 2015. He oversaw the establishment of the club’s ‘B’ side following the decision to close their youth academy as a response to the restrictions imposed on them by the Premier League’s elite player performance plan. The Scot was appointed technical director in February.

“All at the club have been left devastated by the news,” read a statement. “All our thoughts are with Robert’s wife, his family and all his friends – many of whom work at Brentford FC.”

Brentford’s chief executive, Mark Devlin, added: “We are all simply devastated with this news. Rob was a terrific man and a great character around the club. We will all miss him greatly and will do all we can to support Rob’s family at this incredibly difficult time. Our deepest condolences go to all of Rob’s family and friends.”

Brentford and Wales defender Chris Mepham also paid tribute to Rowan on Twitter. “So sad to hear the news earlier this morning of Rob’s death. Anyone who knew this man would agree that he was a kind, genuine and well respected man in football, who gave me the platform to grow as a footballer and also as a person … [He] will be deeply missed by everyone.”