The role and performance of supporter directors: A social exchange theory perspective

Supporter directors are individuals elected to a sports organization’s board represent the interests of its supporters. Although their inclusion on boards is widely considered be good ethical practice, recent research shows that supporter face distinct challenges often inhibit them from performing effectively. The purpose this study was illuminate how can overcome these by, firstly, generating deeper understanding roles in Scottish football clubs and, secondly, analysing board-level social interaction influences role performance. method consisted 17 interviews with who currently serving, or have previously served, as club boards. findings show perceive encompass three elements: (1) promoting supporters’ meetings, (2) acting conduit information, and (3) complying fiduciary duties. Drawing exchange theory, then revealed perception among successful performance those dependent ability initiate sustain patterns reciprocal colleagues. provides practical recommendations for other types stakeholder representatives improve