The Well Society is set to welcome two new faces to its Board following the conclusion of their recent elections. Stephen Reside and David Macfarlane were elected to the Board for the first time.
A total of four candidates stood for two spots in the election. All offered a wide range of knowledge, skills, and experience, and gave Society members a tough choice.
A total of 419 valid votes were cast from a potential pool of 2,819 Well Society members, meaning that 15% of eligible members voted. Five votes were discounted as duplicates.
The number of votes cast for each candidate was as follows:
- Stephen Reside – 233 votes
- David Macfarlane – 161 votes
- Tom Feely – 146 votes
- David Blacklaw – 115 votes
Stephen, who has championed inclusivity in Scottish football, and who will look to strengthen some of the content and communications offerings of the Society, can’t wait to get started.
He said of his appointment: “I’m buzzing. It’s an honour to be elected and to be able to have a positive influence at the club I’ve supported all my life.
“There are not many people with a physical disability in this kind of position in other clubs, and I hope to be able to ensure that the Society continues to listen to its members and to continually improve. I truly believe that the more we interact, the more we can show people what fan ownership at Motherwell FC is all about.”
David had a global career in finance for an oil and gas company in roles which took him all over the world. Now retired, he brings experience in leadership, board level management and finance to the Society.
He said: “It’s a real honour to be joining the Board of The Well Society. We’ve made a huge amount of progress over the past year or so and I’m looking forward to doing everything I can to continue strengthening the Society and the football club.”
Philip Speedie, Chair of the Society, welcomed the new elected members and praised the immense contribution of his predecessor Tom Feely, who will now step down.
“We extend our deepest thanks to Tom for his dedication and contribution over the last 13 years,” Philip said.
“From being one of the first Directors elected at the Society’s inaugural AGM in 2012, Tom has played a key role in shaping and supporting our fan ownership journey – bringing a steady hand to the finances and promoting the Society and our club with passion.
“On behalf of everyone at the Society: thank you, Tom, for everything.”
Tom wished the Society all the best, and added: “I have been extremely fortunate and honoured to have been involved for almost 13 years but it is time for change and for me to move on. Onwards and upwards for the Society. It’s in excellent hands going forward.”
Stephen and David will join existing Directors Greg Anderson, Sean Baillie, David Cullinan, Martin Grey, Amber Johnstone, Gavin McCafferty, Kevin Rogers, Philip Speedie, Alison Thewliss and Derek Watson. The meeting of the new Well Society Board takes place on Monday 19 May.