Dean Hoyle formally takes over Huddersfield Town - exclusive interview

Jun 1 2009 Huddersfield Daily Examiner

While Davy will remain a director, Hoyle hasn’t ruled out reshaping a current six-strong board, the other members being Clibbens, Roger Armitage, Ralph Rimmer and Ann Hough, who is also club and company secretary.

“Ken will continue to have involvement, retaining a 30% minority shareholding and a seat on the board,” says Hoyle.

“As he has done this year, Ken will fund some losses next season and to a smaller degree the season after, but these are capped. Above these limits I fund the extra. I also funded all the transfer fees (as I did this season) and that will be the case going forward.

“I am considering adding further directors to challenge the existing board but in principle, I am not in favour of big boards. Too often they are divisive, and we must be as one – fans, management and team. We rise or fall together.”

Buoyed by season-ticket sales, which are close to going through the 10,000 barrier, Hoyle has a message for supporters:

“I would like to thank them for their backing. I have been a fan for more than 30 years but never envisaged owning the club.

“At time of administration (in 2003), I wasn’t in a position financially to become involved. I am now, and I want to help the club get back on the right track and help it reach the position it deserves to be in.

“I believe my involvement is for the right reasons – not for personal gain or ego. My business history is one of being low profile and my company has been relatively anonymous. Although I accept being in the football spotlight is very different, I don’t seek publicity.

“Obviously we desperately want to reach the Championship, but I won’t be setting any targets or deadlines. You never know what is around the corner so we will take each year as it comes.”