ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the role of the Sporting Director in soccer, which can broadly categorise two main groups of clubs depending on where the majority of power was congregated. Those clubs who were run mainly by the First Team Manager, who generally had the final say on all aspects of the club and team, or those clubs who were run by an Owner, President or Chief Executive who maintained power for many aspects of how the club functioned, leaving the Head Coach to work within the parameters he/she was given. Although many Sporting Directors know the importance of sitting on the board of the club, it is often negotiable as candidates seek opportunities in old organisations who refuse to change and continue to face an uphill struggle despite their past success. Architectural innovation refers to structural change to the organisation to embrace the innovation and is worth consideration.
