General Description
The role of Patron is an honorary one without power in terms of the governance or management of the club and also has no legal responsibilities in relation to the club.
The Patron should provide knowledge, experience, networks, advice, leadership and guidance to the club.
REPORT TO: Club Committee and Financial Members
How a Patron Can Help
- The Patron acts primarily as a public figurehead for the club.
- May also act as a sounding board to the chairman and committee.
- The Patron may also advise on club strategy, operations and activities as needed.
- Attending and actively participating in committee meetings as requested.
- Providing assistance and support to the club as requested by the committee e.g. with funding applications and general public relations.
- Generate media coverage
- Attend club events.
Qualities of a Good Patron
- Genuinely well known relative to the club’s aims and purpose.
- Have a satisfactory personal reputation in the community.
- Available and willing to support the club as required, including personally attending meetings (both internal club meetings and with external parties) were it is deemed appropriate by the committee.
- Be prepared to be briefed about the club, its vision and goals so that he or she can answer questions as necessary.
Appointing Patrons
- Organisations do not need any special powers to appoint a patron, however, before approaching a potential patron the club should ensure that there are no special requirements within its constitution. Most club constitutions require the appointment of a patron to be confirmed at the club’s annual general meeting.
- Develop a list of potential patrons and what they can offer to your club.
- Personally approach the potential patron, be prepared to share information about your organisation including its vision and goals for the future.
- Appoint patrons for a fixed period (say 1 year) in case they fade from the public eye or their reputation becomes tarnished.