The First 100 Days of a Sports Leader
Learn how to take control fast, make smart decisions under pressure, and build momentum that lasts beyond your first 100 days.
Led by:
Les Reed
- November 19-21, 2025
- On-campus in London
- 100% Flexible, possible to complete all online
- 950 CHF until August 15 – then 1250 CHF
- Payable in installments
Our Alumni Work At
Program overview
The first 100 days in a sports leadership role can define long-term success — or signal early failure.
This unique program will show you how to turn that critical period into a strong foundation for leadership and lasting impact.
You’ll develop practical skills in setting clear priorities, navigating internal politics, and making confident decisions under pressure — all grounded in real-world sports leadership.
Delivered by industry leaders with deep real-world experience, this executive education program blends online learning with an on-campus course day in London.
You will learn how to...
- Establish your leadership position and strategic priorities in a new role
- Navigate internal dynamics and build trust across key relationships
- Lead cultural transformation and align teams with club or federation strategy
- Manage high-pressure decisions and media scrutiny with composure
- Drive recruitment and performance processes with long-term vision
- Define success metrics and communicate progress to key stakeholders
Who is this program for
- Sporting Directors
- Technical Directors
- Heads of Technical Departments in Sports Organizations
- Club Executives
- Senior Coaching Staff
- Experienced Player Agents
Program format
- 2 course day in-person in London
- Combined with a Premier League club visit
- 100% Flexible, possible to complete all online
- In-person event is optional to join — the full program can be completed online.
This program includes
- Interactive lessons in an enjoyable set
- Guided feedback & reflection
- Premier League club visit
- Lifetime access to course materials
- Highly flexible, fits into busy schedules
- Global cohort unlocking new opportunities
- Direct access to professors
- Diploma awarded upon completion
- 10% lifetime Alumni discount
Program director
Les Reed
Les Reed is a highly respected football executive known for delivering rapid, strategic impact across his roles.
At The FA, he led the restructuring of elite player development, while at Southampton, he built a high-performance model that delivered sustained Premier League success. Most recently, at Wrexham AFC, he laid the groundwork for the club’s ambitious rebuild.
His ability to bring clarity, structure, and momentum early in his tenures makes him the ideal leader for this program.
Here’s everything you need to know about the program.
Get your free brochure.
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.
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.
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.
- November 19-21, 2025
- On-campus in London
- 100% Flexible, possible to complete all online
- 950 CHF until August 15 – then 1250 CHF
- Payable in installments
A global network of leaders
Below are some of student profiles who joined this program.
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 FOCUS MBA in Sporting Directorship.
You can explore how it fits within each program here.
Join the success stories
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.
Tatjana Haenni
Chief Sporting Director, NWSL
Bianca Rech
Director of Women’s Football, FC Bayern München
Dean Steninger
Head of Academy, Chelsea FC Women
Michelle Dorgan
fmr. Head of Marcomms, Women in Football
Jacob Naish
fmr. Head of Purpose, Right to Dream
Anna Smirnova
Monteneri Sports Law
Christina Philippou
Associate Professor in Sport Finance, Uni. of Portsmouth
Start your application now
Grow with peers. Lead with purpose. Join the professionals driving change.
- November 19-21, 2025
- 950 CHF until August 15 – then 1250 CHF
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.