Bradford Park Avenue have today announced that the previously approved transfer of the club has taken place, along with two important proposed additions to the board.
The Club is pleased to announce that the new ownership vehicle is Bradford ( Park Avenue ) AFC CIC, a Community Interest Company fully owned by Gareth Roberts, who has been the principal financial supporter of the club for the past few years.
Speaking today about the transfer Mr Roberts said “The change to a community interest company is a relatively minor technical one, but it does allow for more financial flexibility in particular additional investment, which is always needed for the club to progress. We are still a community club and our vision for the club has not changed
Along with the completion of the transfer, Mr Roberts also announced that he has nominated Dr John Dean for the role of Chairman of the board of Directors, and Mr Jonathan Collura for the role of Director. Both are nominated pending FA board approval.
Dr John Dean is well known to Bradford Park Avenue supporters and the local community having served the club as Chairman from 2005- 2017. A lifelong supporter and Pudsey local, Dr Dean will bring many years of experience and Bradford Park Avenue history to the board of directors.
Texas based American Jonathan Collura is Managing Partner of 1836 Capital and Chairman of the Nebraska Bugeaters FC in the US. Previously a partner in Alfreton Town FC, Mr Collura’s experience in finance and management consulting will provide expertise and direction for the club during this important period of growth towards a community based self- sustainable model.
On the new appointments Mr Roberts said “ This is an important step for the club and the first of a number of steps that we intend to make over the next few months. Dr. John Dean will continue to bring his experience to the club and the addition of Jonathan Collura, a colleague of mine in Dallas and a big football fan, will bring some fresh ideas to the club.
In association with these changes, the club is forming an Advisory Board consisting of long time members Neil Fawcett, Ben Harvey, Dave Stordy and club secretary Colin Barker. Honorary chairman of the Advisory Board will be David Bruce, an Avenue legend along with his dearly departed wife Maria ,both renowned at the club for their support and generosity.
Rob Stanley has moved into a consulting position at the club for the remainder of this year and will be moving on to pastures new in 2019 The club would like to thank him for contributions to the club and invite him to come up north and see some games in future.