Leadership Update

Dear Members,

Club governance and leadership update

We are writing to update members on the Club’s proposed future structure and on some changes to the Executive Committee. The Club continues to operate as usual, its finances and day-to-day activities remain on a stable footing, and appropriate arrangements are in place while the changes described below are progressed.

The structure of the Club

You may remember that in 2020/21, the members of the Club resolved to incorporate the Club as a Charity.  Unfortunately, due to complexities in the process, the earlier proposal was not ultimately completed.

As such, the Club currently operates as a limited company but has continued to apply the Constitution that all members adhered to before the process was put in motion.

The Executive Committee has now taken steps to take forward the members’ earlier decision and establish Hove as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (“CIO”). A CIO is a legal structure designed specifically for charities. It will enable the Club to obtain the benefits of charitable status while providing an incorporated structure suited to a community club run largely by volunteers.  This is an important next stage in the Club’s development.

The procedure is underway and an application has been lodged with the Charity Commission by the proposed Charity Trustees. More details will be shared in due course and it is the Executive Committee and key officers’ intention to consult with all members of the Club prior to completion of the process.

If you would like to understand more about the CIO and related structures prior to consultation, you can contact the Club Secretary here.  No change to the Club’s structure will be completed without members first receiving further information and having the opportunity to consider and approve any matters requiring member consent.

Changes to the Executive Committee

It is with some sadness that we announce that the following Officers of the Club have resigned from their roles:

• James Finlason.  Chair.

• Dean Brackenridge. Vice Chair.

• Jason Stott.  Honorary Treasurer.

On behalf of all members, the Club would like to express its sincere thanks to James and Dean for their exceptional commitment and service. Their energy, enthusiasm and leadership have made a significant contribution to the Club’s growth and progress in recent years. Both can be immensely proud of what they have helped the Club to achieve. We hope that James and Dean will remain closely involved with Hove and look forward to seeing them at the Club throughout this season and in the years ahead.

The same thanks are extended to Jason.  During his time as Treasurer, Jason has made a significant contribution to the Club, strengthening its governance and financial controls and helping to place it on a secure financial footing for the future. The Club is extremely grateful for his commitment and service.

Richard (“Dick”) Tidmarsh has been appointed as acting Honorary Treasurer until the next AGM and Jason will work alongside Dick in the short-term to effect an orderly handover. Dick will be known to many members of the Club and he has a wealth of relevant experience, making him ideal for the role of Honorary Treasurer.

The remaining members of the Executive Committee will continue to oversee the Club’s affairs pending the election of successors to the Chair and Vice Chair roles.  Further details of the nomination and selection process will be provided shortly.  These changes do not affect the Club’s day-to-day rugby activities or its commitment to providing an inclusive and supportive environment for players of all ages and abilities. The Executive Committee will keep members informed as the CIO application and officer appointment processes progress.

If you have any questions, please direct them to one of the Executive Committee.

Yours sincerely,

Tom Barnard

Club Secretary