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Dirk Schluenz
Geschäftsleiter Vermarktung 1. FC Nürnberg
Professional Background
Dirk is an accomplished sports-management and sales expert with a wealth of international experience in some of the most prestigious sports properties in the world. His career has been marked by significant contributions to landmark events such as the FIFA World Cup in 2014 and the Olympic Games in 2012 and 2014. With a proven sales track record that exceeds €140 million, Dirk's expertise lies in forging vital partnerships and securing lucrative sponsorships and media rights, positioning organizations to thrive in the competitive sports landscape.
Throughout his career, Dirk has demonstrated an exceptional ability to restructure and build commercial sales divisions within sports clubs and associations. His notable work often involves in-sourcing commercial divisions that were previously managed by external agencies, ensuring that organizations maintain control over their commercial strategies and realize greater financial success.
Dirk’s commitment to the growth of the sports and media tech sector is evident in his collaborative efforts with innovative start-ups. His experience spans multiple cities across Europe and beyond, including Madrid, Prague, Berlin, Geneva, and Tel Aviv, where he has cultivated a diverse skill set and a robust professional network.
Education and Achievements
Dirk boasts an impressive educational background, having studied at some of the most prestigious institutions in the world. He has completed executive education programs at Harvard Business School and engaged in professional development through Harvard Division of Continuing Education, enhancing his expertise in commercial management and strategic thinking. In addition to his studies at Harvard, Dirk has also pursued higher education at Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main and Universität Hamburg, grounding his knowledge in the principles of business and management.
His diverse educational experiences not only reflect his commitment to lifelong learning but also serve as a bedrock for his strategic insights in the rapidly evolving sports industry.
Notable Achievements
Dirk's career is decorated with numerous notable achievements that speak volumes about his capabilities and contributions to the field of sports management. As the Managing Director Commercial at 1. FC Nürnberg, he played a pivotal role in enhancing the club’s commercial outreach and securing key partnerships. His former position as Senior Advisor at Dirk Schlünz allowed him to share his deep insights into sports management, further cementing his reputation as an industry leader.
In founding KESTT Hamburg, a think tank devoted to culture, entertainment, and sports, Dirk demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to fostering innovation in the industry. His leadership at FC St. Pauli as the Head of the Commercial Division showcased his ability to develop strategic initiatives that drive revenue.
Dirk has also had an impactful role as a member of the Advisory Board at vBrand, where he contributed to the strategic direction of brand partnerships in the sports sector. His project work as a Strategy Consultant at Maccabi Tel Aviv FC underscored his flexibility and ability to work in a diverse range of environments and with various sports organizations. His interim role as VP - Head of International Football at Lagardère Sports placed him at the nexus of global football, allowing him to leverage his network and forge meaningful partnerships that benefit all stakeholders.
Further back in his career, Dirk served as the Managing Director and Member of the Board at Sportfive, one of the leading agencies in sports marketing, where he was instrumental in securing significant sponsorships and enhancing the agency's reputation in the industry. As a Key Account Manager at Sportfive, he was a driving force in the success of numerous campaigns and partnerships, building a legacy of achievement that continues to inspire upcoming professionals in the field.
Throughout his distinguished career, Dirk has cultivated a reputation for excellence, resilience, and innovation in sports management, consistently delivering results that surpass expectations. His influence is widely recognized among peers, and he continues to be a sought-after figure in discussions surrounding sports partnerships, sponsorships, and the future of sports management.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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