The Boards of the Auckland Football Federation (AFF) and Northern Football Federation (NFF) held a joint meeting on Monday 23rd September 2019 to consider a proposal for a Joint Operating model in 2020.

A wide range of stakeholders provided valuable feedback on the proposal including: Member Clubs, Referee Representatives, Staff, Funding Agencies, Regional Sports Trusts, Auckland Council and NZ Football.

From the feedback the Boards noted, in particular, the proposed concept and organisation model was understood and supported, competition delivery is the priority area, a phased implementation was recommended where appropriate and clear milestones were needed for 2020.

The Boards also considered the legal and auditor opinions received regarding the proposal.

After reviewing the amended proposal, feedback from stakeholders, as well as the legal and audit opinions the AFF & NFF Boards have jointly resolved to:

1. Set up a Joint Committee to establish & oversee the Unincorporated Joint Venture (UJV)
   1. Joint Committee to consist of two representatives + Chairs from each Federation
2. Delegate the appropriate Board Powers to the Joint Committee
3. Establish a joint operating model based on the amended Proposal/Organisation Structure
4. Adopt four Priority Areas for 2020:
   1. Competitions Delivery
   2. Stakeholder relationships
   3. Develop Team culture & values
   4. Scope commercial opportunities

The Boards and Management will now begin the process of establishing the UJV, allocating resources and preparing for the 2020 season. Briefings will be held for staff followed by further stakeholder briefings, in late October, across the joint operating area.

On behalf of both Boards we would like to thank all those who engaged in the consultation process and took time to provide valuable and insightful feedback. This is a significant decision made with intent of making the game more efficient, effective and sustainable across the joint operating region.

We look forward to working with all stakeholders to make the UJV a success.

Article added: Friday 27 September 2019