As we welcome the new year, the European Club Association (ECA) is excited to unveil the 5th edition of its flagship educational initiative, the ECA Club Management Programme (ECA CMP5). This programme is designed to equip senior club professionals with the expertise needed to navigate the ever-evolving football landscape and drive success within their clubs.
Why does ECA CMP5 Stand Out?
Comprehensive Learning Experience
Spanning nine months, ECA CMP5 combines in-person modules, online masterclasses and a personal coaching programme, offering a rich blend of theoretical insights and practical applications. Participants will engage in four residential modules across Europe and the USA, ensuring a well-rounded and immersive learning journey.
Tailored for Football Executives
ECA CMP5 is specifically crafted for senior managers and executives from ECA Member Clubs. The programme covers key areas such as strategic development, performance strategy, commercial trends and sustainable growth, preparing participants to tackle industry challenges effectively.
Programme Structure
In-Person Modules
- Module 1: The Business of Football
25-27 March 2025, Lausanne, Switzerland
Focus: Club strategy, governance, financial structures and tactical planning. - Module 2: Performance & Sporting Strategy
03-05 June 2025, Salzburg, Austria
Focus: Game philosophy, talent recruitment, performance analysis and sport law. - Module 3: Commercial & Social Trends
08-11 September 2025, New York/Miami, USA
Focus: Commercial strategy, fan engagement, branding and innovation. - Module 4: Future Revenues & Sustainable Growth
18-20 November 2025, London, United Kingdom
Focus: Future revenues, venue management and stakeholder communication.
Online Masterclasses
Covering essential topics such as regulatory issues, financial management, community engagement, sustainability and technological trends.
Executive Coaching
Participants receive personalised coaching to develop self-awareness, confidence and resilience, equipping them to navigate both personal and professional challenges effectively.
Key Benefits of ECA CMP5 Participation
- Personal Development - Expand and refine your skillset and become an industry thought leader.
- Club Impact - Gain practical knowledge and insights to address current and future challenges and opportunities at your club.
- Industry Network & Influence - Join a strong network of football executives who facilitate collaboration off the pitch to advance the industry.
Giulia Mazzia, current Commercial Director Chelsea FC Women and CMP4 alumna, reflects on her experience:
"I think that the biggest value from attending the CMP is the information-sharing amongst the members. It was great to do the academic parts, however we also had the chance to experience different things that you don’t normally do in your traditional educational environments, and it was a lot of fun to see everyone outside their comfort zone."
Key Details and How to Apply
- Programme Fee: €6,500, covering all programme delivery, executive coaching and onsite logistics (personal travel and accommodation not included).
- Application Deadline: 17 January 2025. Early applications are encouraged, with successful candidates notified by early February.
- Eligibility: Open to executives at the first and second-management levels of ECA Member Clubs. The programme promotes diversity, offering two sponsored seats for under-represented groups in football.
Make 2025 the year of transformation. ECA CMP5 offers more than just education - it’s an opportunity to shape the future of football while advancing personally and professionally. Start the year with a commitment to positive change within your club and the wider football community.
For more details or to apply, visit ECA Campus or contact campus@ecaeurope.com.