Rochdale Football Club would like to inform its supporters of the following changes to the Board of Directors.
We are pleased to announce that Andrew Kilpatrick, the club’s President, has joined as a Director along with current employees James Mason (CEO), Gina Buckley (Club Secretary) and Frances Fielding (Sales and Marketing manager) as Executive directors. At the same time Associate Director John Smallwood has stepped down from his position.
Upon joining the Board, Mr Kilpatrick said: “It is a great honour. My father was previously on the Board and was Vice-Chairman for a while, and, as a result, I have Rochdale in my blood, having grown up supporting Rochdale AFC.
“My family has had a long association with the football club and I look forward to that continuing.”
In a first for the club, Ms Buckley and Mrs Fielding become the first ever women to be appointed to the Board of Directors.
Ms Buckley, said: “Having been a part of the club for over a decade, it has been a huge part of my life and I feel extremely humbled and honoured to have been asked to take up this position. I hope I can use my experience and knowledge gained over the last 12 years to further benefit the running of the club.”
Mrs Fielding added: “I am delighted and privileged to be one of the first female directors to join the Board at Rochdale AFC. I will continue to give my all to this football club which means so much to me and my family.”
Welcoming all the new appointments Chairman Chris Dunphy said: “Andrew, James, Gina and Frances have a great deal of experience to contribute to the Board. I believe this a big step forward for the club and one that can only be beneficial.
“It is a proud day in the history of Rochdale AFC as Gina and Frances become the first ever women to join the Board. They have been at the forefront of our progression as a club over the last few years and so this new role is a perfect fit for them and the club.
“I look forward to working even closer with them all during the rest of the season and beyond. Up the Dale!”
The club would like to place on record its thanks to John Smallwood for his dedication and commitment to the role during his tenure. Everyone associated with the Club wishes him the very best for the future.