Following the departure of Matt Taylor as manager of Exeter City, Club Board Chairman Nick Hawker has provided an update to supporters.
After four years as manager and 100 wins, Taylor leaves the club with the very best wishes of everyone at Exeter City and the search will now commence to find his successor.
Nick has taken time away from his busy work behind the scenes to sit down with ud to explain the events of the past few days and the hunt for a new manager.
"We are all obviously disappointed. Matt has been a fantastic manager for Exeter City who has given us a huge amount of joy," Nick said.
"I guess we always knew this would come at some point."
When were you first made aware of the approach from Rotherham United?
NH: We were first made aware at the end of last week and we gave them permission to talk to him. We would never stop him doing that.
How has the process been with Rotherham United?
NH: Everything I have seen has been entirely respectful from their end. We are disappointed that the Trust accidentally jumped the gun with the announcement, it was an honest mistake which can happen when you have people across the country trying to do the best they can.
Have you spoken to Matt about his decision?
NH: We spoke to Matt after Bristol Rovers and it was incredibly hard decision for him. He spoke very highly of the club and our ethos, but Rotherham are a league above and if you're a career man, it's a great opportunity. You couldn't deny him the chance. We should never assume people have to leave but neither should be stop in their way if that's what they want.
Are we due compensation?
NH: No amount of money can replace Matt Taylor, but there are contractual terms that have to be met by everybody. We believe that the amount of compensation is appropriate.
Kevin Nicholson and Jon Hill will be taking the team on an interim basis.
NH: Kevin and Jon have stepped forward brilliantly. It is a very tight group at the training ground so everyone stood up to be counted. It's business as usual.
What are the plans going forward to find Matt's replacment?
NH: There will be a selection process. The notice will go out via the EFL and LMA portals and there will be a free process for anyone who applies.
Have we put a timescale on the recruitment process?
NH: It is urgent, we need stability, but it is far important to find the right fit rather than rushing into anything.
What has the mood been around the club?
NH: Overall disappointment but I do believe we all thought this day would come. We're a business and a professional orgamisation so we just have to move on and it is testament to the people here that we are able to carry on as usual.
Do you have a message for Matt?
NH: We couldn't wish him any more luck if we wantewd to. He has deserved his chance to shine - and his family of course. We often forget that it's family that has to move as well and Rotherham is very different to Exeter. But we wish him the very best of luck. It will be the second result I check on every week.
On the importance of the supporters...
NH: It is going to be difficult but our supporters are very patient and we ask they continue with that while we look for a new manager. Matt acknowledged how fantastic the supporters are many times. They deserve the best and that is what we will be looking to do for them.
Watch the full interview with Nick below 👇