Amit Bhatia Steps Down As QPR Chairman
Amit Bhatia has stepped down as QPR chairman, with Lee Hoos assuming the position alongside his current duties as CEO.
Bhatia, who has been involved with the club for more than 16 seasons, since 2007 – initially as vice chairman and subsequently as chairman for the past five years – will remain on the board alongside the club’s other shareholders and his position in this respect is unchanged.
As an affirmation of their commitment, the Bhatia family have entered into an additional three-year commercial agreement which will see the South Africa Road Stand renamed The Bhatia Stand.
Speaking of his decision, Amit said: “While the decision to step down as chairman was always going to be a difficult one and has been made with a very heavy heart, it is made with the best interests of the football club in mind.
“I wanted to wait for the arrival of our new head coach to take place first, and to ensure it was a process that could be conducted as smoothly as possible.
“Being chairman of QPR is a role I have held and served with immense pride.
“However, I fully recognise the responsibility of the position and the importance of a greater presence, not only at matches but also, where possible, on a day-to-day basis.
“Due to ever-increasing responsibilities and commitments on my time, it is now proving challenging for me to dedicate as much time to this position as is required and deserved.
“Chairmanship duties will now be taken on by Lee, alongside his role as CEO, whose regular presence at the club is vital as we look to build for a better future for our fantastic supporters.
“Lee is an incredibly dedicated individual who works tirelessly, and I am personally delighted he has accepted the position.
“QPR is so special to my entire family and we are hugely honoured to work with the club for the renaming of the South Africa Road Stand.
“Sponsorships are an important revenue stream for all football clubs and this partnership allows us as a family to contribute further to the club.
“I thank our fans for their continued support.”
Hoos, who joined the club as CEO in 2015, added: “It is truly an honour that the board have asked me to assume the role of chairman of the board.
“I have always had direct accountability to the board, which will of course continue notwithstanding my appointment as chairman. Other than chairing board meetings, the governance of the club will remain unchanged.
“It will mean that the position of chairman now has a more visible presence – something Amit has wanted to commit to but has found increasingly difficult to do.”
