Sheffield Wednesday CEO David Bruce has outlined the club's commitment to transparent communication as part of its rebuild under new ownership. Bruce stated the strategy is designed to bring supporters along for the journey from the very beginning.
Arise Capital Partners took control of Sheffield Wednesday this year, inheriting a club that finished 24th in the Championship last season with just one win from 42 games. Work to stabilise the club began immediately, Bruce explained, with a focus on foundational stadium improvements and frequent fan updates.
Stadium work and matchday honesty
Bruce noted that a £5m investment was directed into safety and essential stadium works just two weeks after the takeover. This included fixing roof leaks, installing flushing toilets, and improving food and drink service ahead of the new campaign. Significant progress was made before the season started, he said.
The club's communication now involves detailed matchday guides. Bruce wants these to be frank about ongoing issues. "Let’s communicate and let’s communicate frequently," David Bruce said. "We’re still not where we need to be with certain things on matchday. So we articulate that in the matchday guide."
He described the collective effort of the rebuild as a powerful experience for everyone connected to the club. "It’s intoxicating; it might be a little bit messy at times, but that’s okay because we’re together," Bruce said.
The aim is to build trust and a semblance of normality at Hillsborough, with the club currently enjoying a positive run of form. Bruce emphasised the importance of communicating about the journey now, rather than waiting until a later point. Supporters can see the full schedule for the continued rebuild on the pitch via the club's fixtures page. The next test is maintaining this approach as the season develops.
First reported at yorkshirepost.co.uk
