Question 6: When will supporters receive the results of the ‘fan survey’ conducted over a year ago, and why have these not yet been released despite being in the Club’s possession for several months?
The meeting discussed the Celtic ‘Fan Survey’ conducted in summer 2024, and the timelines for publication of the same. Michael Nicholson confirmed that a report outlining the outputs of this survey will be released by the Club soon, noting that key issues which the Club wishes to consult on further included supporter engagement and safe standing.
The supporters expressed concern that the delay undermines transparency and accountability. The Club indicated the survey would be published in October. Kevin McQuillan noted that the volume of data and the number of open ended questions in the survey resulted in an initial set out outputs that were not suitable for public release due to the complexity. The reasons behind this were discussed, together with the need to engage a third party to format the results in a manner suitable for public release.
Kevin McQuillan confirmed that the final report will seek to ensure that the data is presented in a clearer, understandable and useable format. Kevin McQuillan acknowledged that a number of learnings have been taken from the initial Fan Survey, and the Club would take a different approach if it were to conduct such a survey again.
These learnings will be taken into consideration when planning any future or similar engagement of this type. The delay in publication was also discussed, with Kevin McQuillan highlighting that many of the questions put forward in the Fan Survey are not time-dependant as they relate to stadium infrastructure, match day experience etc.
Notwithstanding this, there was an acknowledgement that fan sentiment had changed which may impact people’s views on the Club at this time. Kev Toner acknowledged the humility shown by Kevin McQuillan in addressing this and supporters expressed this as being entirely different to how other discussions had proceeded and reflected the approach supporters hoped to see when discussing other aspects of the Club.
Dialogue regarding the Fan Survey were also linked to discussions regarding the Club’s Digital Strategy and the development of a club app. It was noted that some of the colleagues involved in the Fan Survey are also involved in such other projects. This gave rise to questions from Supporter Groups regarding resourcing within the Club, and if a lack of resource is, in part, why the Club is seen to be ‘under pressure’ in several areas. Michael Nicholson noted that several projects were being progressed across the Club and confirmed that the Club has been, and is currently, undertaking an operational review to ensure that the correct resources and structures are in place.
Creation of a Fan Advisory Board
The Celtic Fan Collective raised the question of a ‘Fan Advisory Board’ or similar, with Paul Quigley asking if this was something the Club had considered. Paul Quigley suggested that would allow for fan representatives within the Club and facilitate two-way consultation. The Club were asked to confirm their position on this.
Michael Nicholson confirmed that this is a matter that the Club is aware of and has been considering. Supporters requested a clear timeline and structure for consultation; the Club said they would come back on this point. This is linked to questions on the Fans Forum in the Fan Survey, and the Club has been looking at these structures as part of its broader supporter engagement development, considering the changing legislative landscape in England and Scotland, as well as the Club’s status as a public listed company.
Michael Nicholson also confirmed that Club had met with the Celtic Trust regarding their survey. GC then explained the review the Club are currently undertaking – which includes identifying Clubs (West Ham and Manchester United were mentioned) operating similar structures and examining who is on such boards, how individuals are elected, and what Terms of Reference apply, amongst other factors.
George Campbell confirmed that the Club will be speaking with other clubs to get direct feedback, and an overview of how such structures are working in practice. The Board would consider these issues further.
Review of Non-Executive Directors
Paul Quigley suggested that an external review of Non-Executive Directors on the Board is required. Michael Nicholson said he will take that suggestion to the Board.
Continues on the next page…
