Huddersfield Town taking measures following COVID-19 pandemic
- Statement from Huddersfield Town CEO Mark Devlin
- Town takes measures to help lower costs and protect jobs
- Discussions between the EFL, Premier League, PFA & LMA ongoing
Huddersfield Town has today taken measures to help lower costs and protect jobs as the global COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact every-day life.
The Board of Directors and Senior Management Team has volunteered to take a salary deferral for the next two months at least (April and May 2020).
The Club has ensured its other members of staff – full-time, part-time and other regular workers – will receive full pay over those two months.
Several staff members are still working remotely, whilst others have been asked to consent to furloughing through the Government’s initiative – with Town topping their wage up to ensure staff receive their full salary.
Discussions continue between the EFL, Premier League, the Professional Footballers' Association and the League Managers’ Association on several matters, including players’ wages, after a meeting yesterday (Wednesday).
Huddersfield Town’s Chief Executive Mark Devlin explained:
“I want to say a massive thank you to every single member of staff for being so understanding and united during these unprecedented events. I’m very proud of the reaction of all the people at the Club to the challenge we all face.
“Our overriding remit as a Board and Senior Management Team is to do all we can for the long-term sustainability and future of the football club, but we are also acutely aware of the livelihoods and wellbeing of our staff. We’ve taken these measures with both those objectives in mind.
“The suspension of matches until 30 April at the earliest means that some of our staff cannot carry out their roles, so we have placed those staff on furlough for the next two months. Thankfully we are in a position to top up their wages to the full 100%.
“All organisations – not just football clubs – will have tough decisions to make down the line, and we will be no different. Every decision we take will be in the best interests of Huddersfield Town. We’re constantly reviewing the situation when Government advice is updated, and we’re given a steer from football’s governing bodies.
“We have to be prepared for the outcome of this pandemic. I believe it could lead to a fundamental shift in football finance, with revenues and costs affected for all clubs in the future. When you see the likes of Barcelona making the same tough decisions, it’s an indication of the possible long-term connotations for the industry.
“Finally, I would like to thank every Town fan for their continued support and understanding. I look forward to having everyone back at the John Smith’s Stadium when it is safe to do so. For now, please heed the Government’s advice; stay at home and stay safe.”
