Name: Rupert Thomas

Occupation: Vice President, Shell International

Current role: Elected Board Member to 31 July 2022

Email:  info@swanstrust.co.uk

Why did you join the Trust Board? I was born in 1966 and grew up in Swansea. I have supported the Swans all my life through the difficult years and the good times. We are now entering an uncertain period for both the football club and the Trust, with some challenging issues ahead including the financial viability of the club and resolving the shareholding issue. I would like to put my experience and energy into making sure the Trust plays a strong and positive role in representing Swansea supporters to secure the best possible future for professional football in Swansea. Following the Swans has been an important part of my life and I would like to ensure our supporters have a club we are proud of going forward.

What attributes/skills are you able to bring to the Board? I bring broad experience from my professional life I work for Shell as a vice president and have spent 30 years in operational, commercial, finance, communications and strategy roles. I am experienced in governance and legal matters and negotiating commercial agreements, mainly working in the UK, the Netherlands, and the USA. I work closely with Shell board members and myself have held chairman and board member roles of industry associations and business organisations.

How do you feel the Trust can further develop its representation of members and the wider fan base? I believe the Trust membership needs to grow substantially in order for the Trust to be more credible and more effectively represent Swansea supporters. It is particularly important to expand membership among young people who are currently under-represented. Improved communications via multiple channels and increased engagement with Trust members and the broader fan base is vital to ensuring the Trust is vibrant and effective in representing the interests of Swansea supporters.

Last edited August 2020