Lincoln City confirms Clive Nates’ departure from active duties
Lincoln City Football Club has announced Clive Nates will step down from his role as co-vice chairman after a decade of shaping the club’s rise from the National League to the Championship. Nates will remain a non-executive director and shareholder but will no longer serve on the club’s committee or take an active role in day-to-day operations.
Nates first joined the Lincoln City board in February 2016 and has overseen some of the Imps’ most historic moments. Under his influence, the club won the National League title in 2017, reached the FA Cup quarter-finals in 2017-18, lifted the Checkatrade Trophy at Wembley in 2020, secured promotion to League One in 2021 and, most recently, the Championship in 2024. His leadership helped drive progress both on and off the pitch, including the transition of responsibilities in February 2026 when Ron Fowler took over as chairman.
Chairman Ron Fowler pays tribute to Nates’ legacy
Ron Fowler, the Lincoln City chairman, described Nates’ contribution as “truly outstanding.” He highlighted Nates’ passion, commitment and leadership as key factors in the club’s most successful period in modern history. Fowler added that Nates’ influence extended across every aspect of the club, leaving a lasting impact on everyone connected to the Imps.
Fowler also confirmed that Nates will remain a shareholder in Lincoln City Holdings and a director of both the football club and the holding company. He praised the ongoing support of vice chairman Jay Wright and director David Lowes, both long-serving board members with deep ties to the club and its values.
Board changes extend beyond Nates’ departure
Amanda Slater, John O’Gaunt’s representative on the Strategy Board, stepped down on 30 June as part of a series of changes agreed ahead of Liquid Investments, Inc. acquiring operational and financial control of the club in February 2026. Fowler expressed appreciation for Slater’s contributions and her role in highlighting the Red Imps Community Trust’s work.
Phil Scrafton will continue serving on the Strategy Board as the club’s fan-elected director. Fowler stressed the importance of working closely with Scrafton and the Trust as Lincoln City moves into its next phase under new ownership.
Clive Nates reflects on his journey with the Imps
In a statement, Nates said his involvement with Lincoln City fulfilled a lifelong dream that began with his first love, Everton. He acknowledged that all things must come to an end and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the club’s progress over the past ten years. While stepping away from active duties, he will remain a shareholder and director, continuing to support the Imps from a different role.
