Opportunity: Commercial Committee Chair

Position:? Voluntary Chair of the Commercial Committee

Location: Broadhurst Park, Manchester, United Kingdom Type: Voluntary, Part-Time (5-10 hours per month)

About FC United of Manchester:

FC United of Manchester (FC United) is one of Europe's best-known 100% supporter-owned football clubs, founded in 2005. The club was established as a response to Malcolm Glazer's controversial takeover of Manchester United, prompting a group of dedicated supporters to create a club that truly embodies the spirit of fan ownership and community involvement. FC United operates on a not-for-profit basis and is democratically run by its supporters, with a "one member, one vote" principle. This structure ensures that the fans have a direct say in how the club is managed. The club's core mission is to provide affordable football while fostering strong community engagement and inclusivity. FC United is deeply committed to sustainability, both in its operations and in its broader social impact.

Since its inception, FC United has been dedicated to making a positive impact on the local community. This includes various community projects, partnerships with local organisations, and initiatives aimed at promoting social inclusion. The club’s community work is extensive, ranging from hosting food hubs during the pandemic to providing football opportunities for young people in the area. The club’s home ground, Broadhurst Park, located in Moston, Manchester, was opened in May 2015. The stadium was funded through a combination of supporter donations, grants from Manchester City Council, Sport England, and the Football Foundation. It stands as a testament to the collective effort of the club's supporters and their commitment to creating a sustainable and community-focused environment.

FC United also actively campaigns for a fairer way in football and is committed to good governance in the sport. This includes advocating for more equitable financial practices within football and ensuring transparency and accountability in all of its operations. The club has clear footballing ambitions, aiming to progress through the football pyramid while staying true to its founding principles. This vision includes expanding its community programs, maintaining affordable football, and continuing to grow its supporter base. FC United strives to balance its footballing ambitions with its commitment to avoiding outright commercialism, ensuring that it remains true to the values on which it was founded. This comprehensive overview highlights FC United’s unique position in the football world as a club that prioritises community, inclusivity, and democratic ownership, making it a model for fan-owned clubs globally.

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Role Overview:

FC United is seeking an experienced and dynamic individual to join our team as the Voluntary Chair of the Commercial Committee. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in commercial operations, marketing, sponsorship, and revenue generation. This strategic role is critical to the financial sustainability and commercial success of the club, ensuring we maximise our commercial opportunities while staying true to our community values. This role will be working as part of a team, supported by the board of directors and the club’s commercial management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Provide strategic direction and leadership to the commercial committee, ensuring alignment with the club’s overall goals and objectives.
• Revenue Generation: Develop and implement strategies to increase revenue through sponsorship, partnerships, merchandise sales, and other commercial activities.
• Sponsorship and Partnerships: Identify, negotiate, and secure sponsorship deals and partnerships that align with the club’s values and enhance our brand.
• Marketing and Promotion: Oversee marketing campaigns and promotional activities to increase the club’s visibility and attract new supporters and commercial partners.
• Commercial Strategy: Develop and monitor a comprehensive commercial strategy that includes short-term and long-term revenue goals.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including sponsors, partners, and the local business community.
• Financial Oversight: Monitor commercial performance, prepare reports, and provide recommendations to the board on commercial activities.
• Governance: Ensure all commercial activities comply with relevant regulations and best practices, and represent the commercial committee at board meetings.

Skills and Experience:

• Commercial Expertise: Proven experience in commercial management, marketing, or business development.
• Leadership: Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and lead a volunteer committee.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement effective commercial strategies and plans.
• Negotiation Skills: Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Financial Acumen: Strong financial understanding.
• Commitment: A deep commitment to the values and mission of FC United, with a passion for using football as a tool for community engagement.
• Committee Experience: Previous experience serving on a committee or in a governance role is desirable but not essential.

Time Commitment:

• Attend monthly committee meetings (typically held in the evenings).
• Lead and participate in relevant sub-committees and commercial events as needed.
• Approximate time commitment is 5-10 hours per month.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to play a pivotal role in the financial sustainability and success of FC United.
• Collaborate with a passionate and committed team dedicated to the club’s mission.
• Enhance your professional network and gain valuable experience in a leadership and governance role.

Application Process: Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV and a cover letter outlining their suitability for the role to [email protected] by Monday 8 July 2024. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

FC United is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all backgrounds and communities.

Join us in driving the commercial success of FC United while staying true to our community roots. Be part of our journey in creating a sustainable and thriving supporter-owned, community football club.