Finance for sporting directors_course_FOCUS Sports Business School (2)
Executive Course
January 06 - 15, 2026

Finance for Technical Leaders

Gain the tools and frameworks to understand financial reports, manage budgets, and align sporting decisions with economic realities.

Led by:

Daniel Martin_focus sports business school_the first 100 days of a sporting director

Daniel Martin

Our Alumni Work At 

Program overview

This executive course equips Sporting Directors, Technical Directors, and senior decision-makers with the tools to understand financial data, manage budgets, and ensure sporting decisions are grounded in financial reality.

Through practical cases and faculty-led sessions, you will learn key areas such as transfer budgets, wage structures, and compliance with Financial Fair Play (FFP), while also addressing the challenges of forecasting and long-term planning in a volatile football environment.

By the end of the course, you will leave with a practical framework to integrate financial insight into recruitment, squad management, and organizational strategy—ensuring sustainable success on and off the pitch.

You will learn how to...

Who is this program for

This program includes

Program leader

Daniel Martin_focus sports business school_the first 100 days of a sporting director

Daniel Martin, CFO at RedBird FC

Daniel has a vast experience in his expertise at organizations like Celtic FC, Al Jazira FC, Portas Consulting, Deloitte, Etihad Airways and Saudi Arabian Football Federation. Currently, Daniel is the Chief Financial Officer and Board Member of RedBird FC which houses businesses synergistic with creating value in European football, both on and off the field. In July 2020, RedBird FC acquired control of Toulouse FC playing in Ligue 1.

Here’s everything you need to know about the program.

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Browse learning plan

Through a combination of practical frameworks, case studies, and interactive sessions, you will learn to drive early successes, and set a foundation for both immediate and long-term impact.

Module 1 | Setting the Strategic Foundations

Key Topics:

> Role Understanding & Immediate Priorities
Quickly define your mandate, assess the environment, and establish early credibility in your new role.

> Communication & Building Relationships
Build trust and political capital across internal teams and external stakeholders from day one.

> Diagnosing the Existing Org Structure
You’ll learn to diagnose what supports performance and what gets in its way.

> Re-Shaping Org Structure for Performance
You’ll explore how to reshape staff responsibilities, build support networks around you, and lay the groundwork for a high-functioning organization.

Module 2: Leading and Driving Change

Key Topics:

> Resilience & Mental Toughness
Lead decisively under pressure by mastering self-regulation, composure, and high-stakes decision-making.

> Organizational & Cultural Change
Drive transformation by identifying cultural gaps and leading people through change with purpose.

> Creating a High-Performance Environment
Build systems, standards, and relationships that elevate team and individual performance.

> Measuring Success & Reporting Back
Define what success looks like, track it effectively, and communicate progress with authority.

A global network of leaders

Below are some of student profiles who joined this program.

Director of Scouting
Director of Women's Football
Head of Performance Acad.
Head of Women's Academy
CFO
Managing Director
Director of Recruitment
International Scout
frm. Director of Recruitment
Director of Recruitment

Hear from our students

Designed for high-potential, highly-motivated professionals who are ready to excel.

Part of both FOCUS MBA tracks

This executive course is offered in both the FOCUS MBA in Football Strategy and Leadership and the Executive Diploma in Sporting Directorship.

You can explore how it fits within each program here.

Join the success stories

The ongoing success of our graduates proves the high impact of our programs.

Meet your lecturers

Your esteemed lecturers are change-makers in the football industry who are committed to
empowering you with the essential skills and knowledge.

Professional Diploma 14 April - 24 May Women's Football Directorship Program

Tatjana Haenni

Chief Sporting Director, NWSL

Professional Diploma 14 April - 24 May Women's Football Directorship Program

Bianca Rech

Director of Women’s Football, FC Bayern München

Professional Diploma 14 April - 24 May Women's Football Directorship Program

Dean Steninger

Head of Academy, Chelsea FC Women

Professional Diploma 14 April - 24 May Women's Football Directorship Program

Michelle Dorgan

fmr. Head of Marcomms, Women in Football

Professional Diploma 14 April - 24 May Women's Football Directorship Program

Jacob Naish

fmr. Head of Purpose, Right to Dream

Professional Diploma 14 April - 24 May Women's Football Directorship Program

Anna Smirnova

Monteneri Sports Law

Professional Diploma 14 April - 24 May Women's Football Directorship Program

Christina Philippou

Associate Professor in Sport Finance, Uni. of Portsmouth

Any questions?

Grow with peers. Lead with purpose. Join the professionals driving change.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this program for?

Women’s Football Directorship program is designed for sporting directors, technical directors, head coaches, club executives, and professionals in football operations, scouting, and player development. It is also suitable for former players transitioning into leadership roles.

What will I gain from this diploma?

You will develop expertise in sporting strategy, recruitment, financial planning, legal frameworks, and leadership, equipping you to make strategic decisions and drive growth in women’s football.

How is the program structured?

This is a 100% online course with a curriculum covering six modules, each focusing on key aspects of women’s football management. The program combines theoretical learning, case studies, and a final group project where you analyze a real club and present your recommendations.

What is the final group project?

You and your peers will conduct a holistic assessment of a women’s football club, identify strengths and weaknesses, and propose a targeted intervention plan. The project concludes with a presentation to the Program Director.

How much time will I need to commit?

This is a fast-paced, professional-level program, designed to be manageable for working professionals. Expect to dedicate a 3-4 hours per week for lessons and the final project.

Will I receive a certificate?

Yes, upon successful completion, you will receive a Professional Diploma in Women’s Football Directorship, certifying your expertise in strategic and technical leadership in women’s football.

How can I apply?

Start your application through the application form on this page or feel free to write us at hello@focussports.education

Spaces are limited to ensure a high-quality, interactive learning experience.