Watford FC statement on new board (From Watford Observer)

Watford FC statement on new board

7:00am Friday 23rd January 2009 in

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The chairman of Watford Football Club, Andy Wilson, is today pleased to announce the appointment of four new non-executive directors to the club’s board, including former manager Graham Taylor.

Taylor, 64, returns to the club with which he is most closely associated, having previously had two spells as manager, on both occasions leading the club to the top-flight of English football.

He is joined on the board by returning directors Jimmy and Vince Russo, as well as former chairman Stuart Timperley.

Speaking of the announcement, Wilson commented: “When I became chairman I said that I would seek to put together a broad, independent board that would best reflect this club and provide us with stability.

“Into the New Year I have had numerous conversations with people whose input I value and as a consequence I am now able to announce the beginning of the board restructuring.

“I have invited Jimmy and Vince Russo to re-join the board. I have also asked Graham Taylor and Stuart Timperley to become directors of the company. I am pleased to say that all of them have accepted these invitations.

“This will create a board of six people, four of whom are not major shareholders in Watford Leisure PLC and, importantly, may be said to be fans first and foremost.

“I am particularly delighted that Graham has accepted our invitation. He clearly has significant other football commitments and we do not therefore anticipate him being at every game, but having him join the board will add significantly to its depth of football experience.

“Jimmy and Vince Russo need no introduction. I want them to be closely associated with the club and I anticipate them working extensively to help balance the financial demands of the club with our collective desire for on-field success.

“Stuart Timperley was, as many of you will be aware, a previous chairman of the club and a long-time supporter. Stuart has a wealth of business and football experience which will help us immeasurably as the board look to address some tough challenges ahead.

“I anticipate that I will extend at least two more invitations to join the board over the next month. I hope to report these to you once the respective parties have confirmed their willingness to act as directors.

“I would also like to take the opportunity to re-affirm that should there be a person who shares the vision of the board for a financially stable, competitive and fan-friendly Watford and is capable of adding to the financial resources of the club then the board would be willing to talk to that party as to how they could become involved with the club.

“Finally I would like to ask that all who hold a special place for Watford in their hearts make a real effort to come to Vicarage Road over the next two months and support Brendan as he begins to build a team that we can all be proud of.”