Swansea City: Chairman launches fan meeting initiative and says three key improvements needed
- Published
Swansea City chairman Andy Coleman built one of the world's leading hospitality industry finance businesses for Berkadia in the United States
Swansea City chairman Andy Coleman will meet supporters twice a month in a new initiative aimed at improving communication from the club.
The American announced the new sessions ahead of a fans' forum event.
Coleman and Swansea's American owners have been subject of criticism from some of Swansea's supporters.
"I want this to be the most open and direct relationship between a chairman and his supporters this club has seen," he said. "I want you to have more."
Coleman says he will address supporters for two hours each month.
"While fans' forums, chairman's letters and other opportunities to speak with one another are great, I do not believe it gives you the full access you deserve," Coleman said.
"With that in mind, we will soon be announcing a new initiative where I will be making myself available to supporters for one hour, twice a month, during the season and moving forward.
"During these sessions, each of you will have the ability to reserve times to sit and meet with me one-to-one to discuss any matters you think to be relevant to the club.
"I believe we will be among the first - if not the first - club to provide this type of regular, open opportunity for supporters to meet with their chairman.
"In good times and in bad, I will be here."
Coleman - who became Swansea's chairman in May 2023 - also noted three significant areas the club are bidding to improve.
"My assessment at the six-month mark is that there are three major areas we need to address: the connection between supporters and the club, football performance, and the business operation," he added.
In his open letter to fans, Coleman hailed the "positive impact" of the Supporters' Trust on the club and the local community.
He also stated the Swans lacked a "coherent strategy" upon his arrival to south Wales, adding there was a "lack of basic staff in important areas," after Russell Martin's move to Southampton.
Following a 1-0 defeat by Bristol City at Ashton Gate on Sunday, Swansea sit 15th in the Championship, five points above the relegation zone.
Luke Williams' side face rivals Cardiff City at the Swansea.com Stadium on Saturday in their final fixture before the international break.