By David Gold
June 7 – The Scottish Football Association (SFA) has agreed a radical change to its governance and structures, which represents a significant achievement for its chief executive Stewart Regan, who championed the reforms.
At its annual general meeting in Glasgow a number of significant resolutions were agreed which changed the structure of the board and the introduction of a new Judicial Panel.
New articles of association have been voted through which protect referees more stringently than before, and also enable the Judicial Panel to sanction anyone publicly commenting on their performances.
Refereeing was a particularly controversial issue in Scotland last season, with officials striking last November as they came under heavy criticism from Scottish Premier League managers.
Former vice-president Campbell Ogilvie has also been elected President, with Regan saying: “This is truly a historic day for Scottish football and I am delighted that our members share our vision for the future.
“These are the most significant changes in the 138-year history of the SFA.
“The decisions made today will allow us change and modernise the association in line with good business practice, and press ahead with our strategic plan.”
Outgoing President George Peat added: “I’m proud to leave my post as president of the Scottish FA on such a positive note.
“I commissioned Henry McLeish’s Review of Scottish football because it was becoming increasingly apparent that our game had to modernise.
“Today, our members have demonstrated that they agree and are ready to work towards a brighter future for Scottish football.”
The board is reducing in size from 11 to seven, with one independent member of the board, and its role has changed as it focuses on corporate strategy and top line decision making rather than simply being a representative body.
An Audit Committee has also been formed, whilst the disciplinary procedures have been rewritten and a Professional Game Board and Non-Professional Game Board also created.
The reforms are part of the new SFA plan, Scotland United – A 2020 Vision, which focuses on four key pillars; performance, strong quality growth, greater financial returns and respect to lead.
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