Pioneering board-level appointment for Bath City
Bath City have appointed Manda Rigby as their new chairperson, making the Blue Square Premier side the highest-ranked club to be run by a woman.
Manda, a former marketing director and managing director with Microsoft and global IT firm Netgear respectively, is the first woman to grace the City boardroom in the club’s 122-year history.
She said: “The club has great ambition, a strong vision, and some incredibly talented and professional people. I hope the experience, commitment and passion I bring will enable me and the rest of the board to ensure that the ambitions on the pitch are matched by the success off of it.”
On being one of the few female executives in football, Manda added: “In some ways I think it makes no difference. My business acumen and knowledge of football are the equal of any man. However, my style may be slightly different and I certainly want to be as inclusive as possible. I have asked to meet with the supporters groups and will have regular ‘meet the chairman’ sessions.”
Manager Adie Britton, who has been acting as interim chairman, said: “Manda is a successful businesswoman. She is a mad and passionate football fan, her father was a professional player and she has been to matches in all divisions throughout the country. I look forward immensely to working with her.”
The former English film and television director, Ken Loach, a City Supporters’ Society committee member, added: “Recent success has given the club a great chance to progress. I am sure the new chairman will make sure we seize the opportunity and put the club right at the heart of city life. I want to wish Manda all the best. She has our full support.”
From thisisbath.co.uk
