Roger Hampel
The Presidential Committee of the Advisory Board of Borussia Dortmund GmbH, chaired by BVB President Dr. Reinhold Lunow, has decided to extend the contracts of managing directors Thomas Treß and Carsten Cramer, originally expiring on June 30, 2025, until June 30, 2027. PHOTO: BVB MEDIA
Borussia Dortmund has recently announced significant changes in its management structure that underscore its dedication to long-term strategic planning and operational excellence in the world of football business.
Strategic Restructuring at Borussia Dortmund
In a move designed to streamline operations and bolster the club’s future, Borussia Dortmund has expanded its management team to include a new position focused on sports. Lars Ricken, formerly the Director of the Youth Performance Center since January 2021, will assume the role of Sporting Director starting May 1, 2024. This appointment marks a significant step in the club's efforts to enhance its operational focus on sports management and performance.
Management Contracts and Future Planning
The club has also announced the extension of contracts for key managerial positions ahead of schedule, ensuring stability and continuity at the top levels of its operations. Thomas Treß, responsible for Finance, Organization, Law, and Investor Relations, and Carsten Cramer, overseeing Sales & Marketing, Internationalization, and Digitalization, have both had their contracts extended until June 30, 2027. This decision reflects the club’s commitment to maintaining a robust leadership team to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the rapidly evolving football industry.
Lars Ricken becomes Sporting Director.
Lars Ricken’s New Role and Vision
Lars Ricken’s promotion to Sporting Director is set against his successful tenure as Director of the Youth Performance Center, where he has significantly contributed to making it the most successful center of its kind in Germany over the past decade. Under his leadership, the center has not only nurtured exceptional young talent but has also seen many of its protégés make it to professional leagues across Europe, enhancing their market values substantially. Ricken’s deep connection with the club and his proven track record in sports management are expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovative strategies to Borussia Dortmund’s broader sports operations.
Continuity and Leadership
With Hans-Joachim Watzke planning to step down from the management board by the end of 2025, the early contract extensions for Treß and Cramer are part of a strategic initiative to ensure leadership stability. The club aims to continue its tradition of combining professional business management with the emotional elements of football, maintaining its strong presence on both national and international stages.
Implications for Football Business
The strategic changes in Borussia Dortmund’s management structure reflect a broader trend in football business where clubs are increasingly focusing on long-term operational planning and stability. By aligning management roles and responsibilities with strategic business goals, clubs like Borussia Dortmund are setting themselves up for sustained success in a competitive environment.
These developments are a testament to the club’s proactive approach in adapting to the dynamic demands of football management and highlight its commitment to excellence and innovation in all aspects of its operations. The restructuring is expected to not only streamline the management of the club’s sporting activities but also enhance its competitiveness and brand on a global scale.
Source: BVB Media
Comments