Trust’s Vision for Club Outlined
Chesterfield FC Community Trust has outlined its vision to secure Chesterfield FC’s status for future generations once the takeover of the club has been finalised.
Financial stability is of the utmost importance and will be prioritised through maximising income streams and reducing costs, with a plan to break even within three years.
The club’s commercial team will be refocussed towards the maximisation of income through developing and implementing new initiatives. These include – but not limited to – the opening of a supporters’ bar, an increased number of major high level events, an overhaul of the conference and banqueting offer and of utmost importance – families and the wider community, particularly schools, will be encouraged to attend games.
As custodians of the club, the Trust aims to create a bridge between the community and the football club through a positive culture operating with openness, honesty, transparency and sustainability.
The Trust consists of a board of trustees who have a wide range of skills and experience. Within the last five years, the organisation has increased its operations from a turnover and staff count of £40k and 10 officers to £1m and 50 respectively.
The organisation operates in a number of fields throughout the community with projects ranging from health & wellbeing, including mental health and an award-winning substance misuse programme, to engaging with schools in North Derbyshire. Players make regular appearances to help teachers deliver key messages and encourage improved numeracy and literacy.
With input from financial advisors appointed to assist with due diligence and planning, the business cases and valuations have been presented to the Trust’s funding partners. The purchase of the club is now subject to final approval from those partners and it is hoped that the deal will be concluded by the end of March.
Mike Goodwin, chairman of the Community Trust, said: “It has been a lengthy process as we have been working hard behind the scenes since first registering our interest in purchasing the club in October.
“The club’s financial position has been well-documented and the focus initially has to be on securing financial stability.
“We have to be realistic, the club must live within its means and much of the planning has centred around making it a viable entity, with cost savings identified as well as a need for controlled budget management.
“It is important that Chesterfield FC is a true community club, providing supporters and members of the community with a voice and encouraging input where possible.
“On the field, we must strive to assemble a squad capable of returning the club to the Football League.
“We appreciate that supporters will have many questions relating to the Trust’s plans. At the appropriate time, we will be holding Q&A sessions to answer any questions.”
