The underpinning values of every community club is constructed in their constitution. Yet for many boards, this vital document gathers dust in a filing cabinet, quietly shaping decisions without being actively reviewed.
Just like a solid building needs strong foundations, a well-structured Constitution can make or break your club’s future success.
The Problem With Too Many (or Too Few) Leaders
Imagine steering a ship with too many captains – or worse, captains who change every few months. Many clubs find themselves in this position, and the result is more than just frustration – it can limit growth opportunities and undermine your venue’s success.
Too many board members: Decision-making slows, debates drag out, and clear direction gets lost in the noise.
Rapid Board turnover: By the time new members find their feet, their term ends. Fresh faces bring new ideas, but also bring constant shifts in priorities, making it almost impossible to deliver long-term strategy.
For hospitality venues, where consistency and strategic planning are key, these governance issues can stall growth and create confusion.
Finding the Right Balance
A strong Constitution strikes a balance:
The right board size – big enough for diverse views, small enough for efficient decision-making.
Longer, staggered terms – giving members time to make meaningful contributions while ensuring continuity.
This structure provides stability, allowing your board to set a clear vision, stick to it, and see results over time.
Why Skills Matter as Much as Structure
It’s not just about how many people sit at the table – it’s about who they are. A well-rounded board can be a game-changer for your club. Diversity in demographics, open-mindedness and a broad range of skills are key to success.
When your Constitution supports the right mix of skills and experience, your board becomes a powerful asset rather than a bottleneck.
Time to Review Your Constitution?
if your Constitution hasn’t been reviewed in years, it may not only be holding your venue back but also not fully addressing your obligations.
A modern, fit-for-purpose Constitution ensures your governance framework actively supports growth, compliance, and long-term success.
At DNS Specialist Services, we work with clubs to review, update, and strengthen their Constitutions. The result? A governing document that’s clear, practical, aligned with your goals and protects the organisation.
Ready to make sure your club’s foundation is as strong as your future?
Let’s chat about a Constitution review today.
