Perceptions of role ambiguity for Sporting Directors in professional football

The Sporting Director is one strategy football clubs have adopted to protect their financial sustainability. Little no research has been undertaken on the role in football. This article draws upon a qualitative methodology examine perceptions and practices related its potential implications football’s growing global business. Semi-structured interviews were with senior stakeholders (N = 21). data was thematically analysed. Findings indicate that would be strategic benefit for clubs, however several issues ambiguity. novel empirical insight surrounds three key themes, notably perception of role, job description clarity communication. study provides insights into elite stakeholder Directors. offers decision-makers considerations developing recommendations future research.