What is a Management Committee?

The management committee (or sometimes referred to as the Board) of a sport organisation is a body of people who have been given powers and responsibilities by the members of the organisation, to manage the affairs of the organisation. The number of people who serve on a management committee varies from organisation to organisation but typically the number is between 6-10 people.

This body of people is sometimes referred to as a “Board” and sometimes as a “Management Committee”. The choice of name is merely a preference and makes little difference. Generally, a larger organisation such as a State or National Association has a “Board”, while smaller organisations such as a small sporting club has a committee. The terms “Board” and “Committee” are interchangeable. Irrespective of whether the term 'board' or 'committee' is used, the structure of the committee will be similar in any organisation.

Election of Committee Members

The members of the organisation give this power to each of the members of the committee through an election process which takes place at the annual general meeting (once per year). A person who is willing to become a committee member is nominated by others or they may nominate themself (put their name forward). If a person nominates for a position on the committee and is unchallenged (no other nominations) there is no need for a ballot. But if two or more persons put themselves forward for the same position (e.g. President), then a ballot is taken and the person receiving the highest number of votes is declared the winner and takes the position. The election of the members of the management committee must follow rules. These rules are stipulated in a document referred to as 'The Constitution'.

Most important tasks of the committee

Boards and Committees both exist for the same purpose, that is to oversee the management of an organisation. In a sport organisation such as a sport club, typical work undertaken by the management committee includes:

People who serve on a board or management committee do so on a voluntary basis. They may receive some financial recompense for expenses they incur while carrying out their duties.

The work involved is very varied and, although it usually unpaid, it provides excellent training in sport management. A year on a management committee can lead to securing a paid job in sports management.

 

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