Football leadership demands more than tactical knowledge. Club executives must make fast decisions, manage complex strategies and lead people under pressure. To support this, ECA has launched the Executive Leadership Programme in collaboration with Harvard Business School Executive Education, bringing world-class leadership training directly to European football.
Practical Tools for Leadership
The first intake welcomed over 50 senior leaders from ECA Member Clubs. Participants gained practical tools, new perspectives and a network of trusted peers to help navigate the challenges of modern football leadership.
Key Takeaways
- Reframe problems and challenge assumptions: Stacy Johns, ECA Board Member & President of the Board of Directors at Grasshopper Club Zürich, said: “It pushed me to step back and reframe problems before jumping to solutions. The combination of Harvard’s frameworks and the peer conversations reminded me to listen more, challenge assumptions and stay open to changing my mind.”
- Learn from a diverse cohort: Leaders from large and small clubs, across legal, commercial and technical roles, shared experiences that made learning more meaningful and applicable.
- Apply proven frameworks: Sessions led by Harvard lecturers included Katherine Coffman on decision-making models and Tom DeLong on leadership insights, plus practical tools such as the “three Cs” framework from the NFL Media case study.
- Build long-term networks: The programme created connections that extend beyond the classroom. James Bonington, Chelsea’s Chief Legal & Corporate Affairs Officer, reflected: “ECA selected leaders from a full cross section of the European football industry. It was fascinating to learn from their perspectives in a world-class environment.”
- Focus on relationships: Leadership intensity is high, but the programme emphasised maintaining strong personal and professional relationships — a vital component of long-term success.
Shaping the Future of Football
By combining Harvard’s expertise with the collective strength of European clubs, ECA is preparing leaders to make better decisions, navigate complex challenges and strengthen football’s future.
Elevate Leadership Skills
Interested in participating in the next edition of the ECA Executive Leadership Programme in collaboration with Harvard Business School, contact campus@ecaeurope.com.