Alt Sporting Director MBA

A transformational 12-month executive programme designed by elite Sporting Directors and delivered alongside industry and academic experts.

A programme designed beyond traditional MBAs

More than an academic course, it’s a transformative journey equipping future football leaders with actionable skills, plus a dedicated football mentor throughout 2027.

Designed for Sporting Directors and Technical Leaders, the programme integrates live executive insight with structured learning, mentorship and applied impact.

Created by ASD members, it delivers real-world learning from elite Sporting Directors, industry, and academic experts, focusing on practical insights from modern football leadership across sports, business, and entertainment.

With limited in-person spaces and a carefully selected cohort, the Alt Sporting Director MBA creates a high-trust, high-impact learning environment focused on leadership transformation, not just certification.

Led by elite practitioners including Paul Mitchell (Sporting Executive), Rebecca Caplehorn (Chief Football Officer, Premier League) and Julian Ward (Technical Director, Fenway Sports Group)

Real-world modules covering strategy, governance, finance, recruitment, leadership and negotiation.

Applied Impact Project enabling you to influence practice, improve systems or solve real challenges in football.

Integrated mentorship matched with global football leaders throughout the year.

Full executive ASD membership with complete access to our ASDonline education platform. Attendance to the ASD Global Conference

Endorsed by industry leaders

"The AltSD MBA delivers on every level — world-class access to elite sporting directors, a rigorous online curriculum, and an executive coaching process that genuinely makes you stop and understand yourself as a leader. The mentorship and executive programmes have been the standout elements for me personally; having that trusted space to discuss where I am, where I want to go, and how to get there is something
I didn't know I needed until I had it. The network and relationships built on this programme are worth the investment alone."

Anne Mäkinen

Specialist in Sports Directorship
Eerikkilä Sports & Outdoor Resort

"The real strength of this course is access. Honest, open conversations with decision-makers at top clubs, plus a cohort of driven professionals from all over the world. Everyone brings something different. The tailored format gives you permission to stretch yourself in ways traditional courses don't."

Stephen Rands

First Team Coach Analyst
Borussia Dortmund

"Having held leadership positions across Europe and the USA, I felt it was time to pursue a higher level of education. The AltSD MBA with the Association of Sporting Directors has been a truly valuable experience — deepening my strategic thinking, reconnecting me with former colleagues, and building new relationships. The insight into how sporting directors operate across the UK and Europe has been particularly impressive, giving me a clearer framework to lead more effectively."

Gary Lewis

Academy Technical Director
Chicago Fire FC

Apply for the AltSD MBA

The AltSD MBA is designed for driven professionals who want more than theory. With limited spaces and a selective application process, this is your opportunity to learn directly from elite Sporting Directors, expand your global network, and accelerate your leadership journey.