My home town feels like the Hollywood Hills
Emma Sutton
Delivering customer success :- one part people, one part customer, one part Technology | Business Transformation | Chief Customer Officer I Operational Leadership I Strategy I Human Experience | Keynote Speaker I NED
For many years, when I tell people I come from a small village just outside Wrexham, I get a quizzical look and a response of “Wrexham, where is that?”?
Well, this weekend I’m not sure there is anyone almost worldwide that hasn’t heard of Wrexham AFC, our long and turbulent history and the Hollywood A-listers who have a dream for both the club and community.?
Over recent months, it is not uncommon to see Ryan Reynolds (Deadpool) and Rob McElhenney (It’s always sunny in Philadelphia) in the stands of Wrexham AFC or sharing a beer in the club's local pub. This weekend though, witnessing how the community and fanbase of one of the oldest clubs in existence came together and the tears of both Rob & Ryan as they saw Wrexham promoted back into the football league after 15 years, I believe even they themselves, never imagined just how much this club and community would become to them. For those non-football followers out there, Wrexham plays in the country’s fifth tier of football. The Premier League is at the top of the pyramid with teams like Manchester Utd & Arsenal, then the Championship, followed by League One & Two and finally one division below that, you get to Wrexham in the National League.?
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On Sunday afternoon, while the streets of Wrexham were still littered with remnants of Saturday’s celebrations, I sat preparing for my working week and reflected on the similarities of great transformations. Since word got out of the pair’s takeover, it was clear they had a vision. I often use the example of the 3 P’s – People, Passion & Purpose. They did their research, shared their vision, made some commitments in doing so and engaged the club, their fans and the wider community. They have nurtured a relationship with the community, and we’ve embraced our new owners – even turning up with shovels to clear the pitch of snow. Most importantly, they delivered on the commitments made to us.?
Of course, they will ultimately be measured by results on the pitch, but we can all learn something from their successful transformation; laying the foundations, creating an inclusive environment, delivering for your fans and leading from the front…and sometimes remembering it is as much about the journey as the destination.??
Maximising customer value through a team of experts in all things Oracle Cloud applications
1 年I might see you at Plough Lane when Wrexham take on the mighty AFC Wimbledon next season Emma ??
Proposition & Sales Director with 28 years of Retail Format Development - I have a view from both sides of the fence helping UK and International customers deliver innovative customer experiences.
1 年Completely agree. Even back in 1997 when I was working in the Wrexham Focus store for 2 or so months to close it down I could clearly see the community was special. Onwards and upwards and a clear example of the 3 P’s and belief. ????
A Professional Storyteller, Newly Qualified Motorbike Rider, Music Lover and eternal chaser of the next great coffee
1 年Great article Emma. Shared visions are powerful things and the best part about the Wrexham story is that it’s not only been about money. It’s a great example of how engaging a catalyst that doesn’t see the usual limitations and that tells a story about the outcomes that are possible can get everyone behind them and giving their absolute best at every step of the way. Really excited to see what the next few years hold for them!
Senior Manager UK&I Financial Services
1 年Very pleased you managed to mention Arsenal in there. It’s fantastic to see what has happened to the club and the community. No doubt some great evenings in the Hand this season ??
Retired and enjoying life, oh and sailing
1 年You are right it is a great moment in history. However, whenever I hear Wrexham mentioned in the media I hear you pronouncing “Wrexham”! ??????????♂?