Chelsea
have decided to include fans in board meetings from July 1 to ensure
"supporter sentiment" is considered in decision-making.
The Blues were among the 'Big Six' Premier League clubs to face backlash
from supporters after announcing themselves as founding members of the
now-collapsed European Super League.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovic and the board "deeply regret" their decision
to join the breakaway competition, according to a club statement, and are
now taking the steps to make it up to the fans.
Three "supporter advisors" will be elected to represent fans on the board,
with Chelsea now set to begin consultation with supporter groups to
determine the selection process.
Chelsea say the successful candidates, who will attend four board meetings
each year, will not be given any voting rights but will be present to offer
advice on a "broad range of matters".
A club statement read: "Chelsea Football Club announces that, as from 1
July, there will be supporter presence at the Club's board meetings.
"Three supporter advisors, picked through an election and selection process,
will attend board meetings to ensure general supporter sentiment is
considered as part of the Club's decision-making process.
"The Club will now consult with the Fans' Forum and several non-official
supporter groups to discuss the Club's proposed process for picking the
three supporter advisors.
"Criteria for nominations as well as final selection will ensure that the
supporter presence is representative of our supporter base generally and is
inclusive and diverse. A new selection will be made before the start of each
season.
"Further information regarding this consultation will be communicated
directly to the Fans' Forum and the other non-official supporters groups in
the coming days.
"The successful candidates will be required to enter into a confidentiality
agreement, similar in scope to the confidentiality obligations of a member
of the Chelsea Football Club board of directors. This will allow the Club to
discuss and seek advice on a broad range of matters.
"The supporter advisors will not have any voting rights and will not
participate in any meetings relating to players, staff, the Academy and
related matters.
"Supporter advisors will attend approximately four meetings per year, and
more if appropriate. If they complete the year successfully they will be
entitled to select a UK registered charity to receive a contribution of
£2,500 from the Club."
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