“Meaningful supporter engagement is built on trust”

Sheffield Wednesday have announced their intention to launch a new Fan Advisory Board.

The Owls said it is ‘part of a refreshed approach to supporter engagement ahead of the 2026-27 season.’ It will replace the club’s previous Engagement Panel, it has been confirmed.

The news is likely to be welcomed positively by Owls fans, who have long-called for more supporter engagement over the years.

“Designed to strengthen collaboration between the club and its supporters, the proposed Fan Advisory Board would provide a representative forum through which supporter perspectives can help inform decision-making across a range of strategic and operational matters.

“This engagement period will also help the club build a clearer understanding of its supporter landscape and ensure any future Fan Advisory Board reflects the breadth and diversity of Sheffield Wednesday’s fanbase.”

Wednesday say they will be reaching out to recognised supporters’ groups this month to introduce how it will work, its purpose and the application process. It will be done alongside the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA). Further information will be shared later this month.

As part of the process, Rebecca Smith has been appointed as Sheffield Wednesday’s first dedicated supporter liaison officer. Her duties will include ‘providing a central point of contact for supporters and helping to strengthen relationships between fans, supporter groups and the club.’

Brand director, Oscar Chamberlain, said: “Meaningful supporter engagement is built on trust, transparency and genuine dialogue. Our intention is to establish a Fan Advisory Board that provides supporters with a representative and constructive forum to help shape the future of Sheffield Wednesday. Before doing that, it’s important we engage with our recognised supporters’ groups, explain what we’re trying to achieve and ensure they have the opportunity to help shape the framework alongside us. Working closely with the Football Supporters’ Association, we want to build a structure that reflects the breadth of our fanbase and creates stronger, more effective dialogue between supporters and the club.”

FSA EFL network manager, Jane Hughes, added: “The FSA is pleased to be working with the new ownership, leadership team and staff at Sheffield Wednesday as they develop a refreshed approach to supporter engagement. Taking the time to engage with recognised supporters’ groups before establishing a Fan Advisory Board is an important part of building a framework that is transparent, representative and effective. We look forward to supporting the club and its supporters throughout the process.”

On the Engagement Panel coming to an end, the club added: “Sheffield Wednesday would like to place on record its sincere thanks to all former panel members for their time, commitment and constructive contribution over recent years.”