Cumberland Football Association has confirmed that chair Adam Pattison will step down from his role at the upcoming annual general meeting.
They say his departure marks the end of a significant and transformative period for the association.
Pattison, who took up the position at the start of the 2023/24 season, became the first independent chair in the association’s 140-year history.
He succeeded interim chair John Rogerson, who stepped in following the death of long serving chair Fred Conway.
Before becoming chair, Pattison had served as the association’s finance director from January 2019, bringing strong oversight and helping to modernise the association’s governance landscape.
One of Pattison’s earliest challenges was supporting the organisation through its board restructuring following the sudden death of Conway in November 2022.
His steady leadership helped guide the association through a period of transition during what was both an emotional and operational challenge for Cumberland FA.
A major milestone during his tenure was leading the organisation to secure the FA Code of Governance Standard for County FAs.
Pattison said: “As a lifelong football fan, and a Manchester United supporter, I know that everything eventually reaches its final whistle.
“As I prepare to step down as chair and finance director at the upcoming AGM, I’ve been reflecting on my seven years with Cumberland FA, and it’s a period I will always look back on with enormous pride.
“I joined the board as finance director in 2019, having been a referee since 2007.
“Guiding football in Cumberland has been a privilege. Fred Conway’s unexpected passing in 2022 left shoes no one could truly fill.
“John Rogerson steadied the ship, and I was formally appointed chair in January 2024. I hope I have honoured Fred’s legacy during my short tenure.
“Success in football isn’t only trophies and goals; it’s the people who make the game what it is.
“To our clubs, players, referees, volunteers, leagues, parents, staff, and supporters: thank you. Your dedication, often unseen, is what keeps grassroots football alive.
“To the board, thank you for your support and passion for the game.
“To the staff team, your commitment is unmatched, and I will still bring cake when I visit.
“To all volunteers and parents: you are the heartbeat of grassroots football.
“And to the county FA network, thank you for your support during my time as chair.
“As I blow the final whistle on this chapter, you will still see me out on the pitch, whistle in hand, continuing my refereeing and professional career.”
Following his departure, Jackie Rudd, the association’s senior independent non-executive vice chair, will step into the position of interim chair while the recruitment process for a permanent chair begins.
Jackie is expected to be visible at upcoming County Cup Finals as she supports the association through this transition.
Ben Snowdon, Cumberland FA CEO, said: “Adam leaves behind far more than structural improvements, he leaves a personal legacy built on care, commitment and a genuine love for Cumberland football.
“His leadership guided us through major governance reform, board restructuring during a challenging period, and the achievement of the FA Code of Governance Standard.
“He strengthened our financial foundations and championed transparency, independence and modern governance at every step.
“Adam’s impact, both professionally and personally, will continue to be felt long after his tenure comes to an end.”
