Football CEO honoured by Salford
Wednesday 12 December 2018
ONE of the most influential men in British football has been recognised by the University of Salford.
Ferran Soriano, Chief Executive of Manchester City FC, and parent organisation, City Football Group, received an honorary degree from the University at a ceremony today. As Chief Executive Officer of City Football Group, Ferran is responsible for growing the business on a global scale. City Football Group is the owner of football clubs and related businesses, around the world, including Australia, China, Japan, Singapore, Spain, UAE, Uruguay and the US.
Born in Barcelona, Ferran has more than 25 years of business experience in ten countries, in the industries of consumer goods, telecommunications, aviation and football. He served at Futbol Club Barcelona as Vice-Chairman and CEO for the period 2003-2008 and is credited with playing a major role in the transformation of the club into one of the most successful football teams globally. Ferran has negotiated deals with some of the sport’s most high profile players and led on some of the most significant TV and merchandising deals in the football industry.
Author of a book published in more than ten countries and languages – ‘Goal: The Ball Doesn’t Go In By Chance’-, Ferran is married with two daughters and lives in Manchester.
He said: “I am very honoured. It is fantastic to be recognised in this way. Manchester is my home now, so it makes it extra special that The University of Salford has given me this honour. Hopefully I’ll be able to inspire a few of the hard working students who are graduating with me today.”
Simon Chadwick, Professor of Sports Enterprise at the University of Salford Business School nominated Ferran for his honour.
Professor Chadwick said: “Ferran Soriano has a long track record of managing football clubs, now with Manchester City but previously with FC Barcelona. Throughout his time in the sport, he has proved himself to be a thoughtful, innovative manager and leader, often doing things in a very different way to his rivals.
“The way in which he goes about his business deserves recognition, not least for the way in which he challenges students of business to change the way they think both about football and business.”
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Sam Wood
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