Recently a team of a-connect IPs worked with the chief executive of German football develop a business plan and implementation blueprint for the insourcing of TV production for the league. In addition, the team identified potential new products and service lines for future growth of the new production. After securing board approval, the team supported the client in setting up the new company and managing day-to-day operations. The project was completed earlier than expected and below the initial budget.
As part of the project wrap-up a-connect Talent Partner Sascha Schmidt caught up with the busy German soccer executive as preparations for this month’s World Cup tournament reached a fever pitch.
Short Biography
Name: Christian Seifert
Born: 8. Mai 1969
Education
1991-1995 Master studies in Communication Sciences, Marketing and Sociology at the University of Essen, Germany
Professional experience
1995-1998 Head of Product Management, MGM MediaGruppe Munich
1998-2000 Head of Marketing (Director), MTV Networks GmbH
2000-2005 Member of the Executive Board, responsible for Media and Marketing; since 2004 CEO, KarstadtQuelle New Media AG
Since Feb. 2005 Head of Marketing and Licensing, member of the Executive Committee, DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga GmbH
Since July 2005 CEO DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga GmbH
Why did you select a-connect rather than the many other consulting firms seeking to work with you?
We were searching for an expert rather than an entire team. We also wanted a very flexible solution given that we could not scope the work from day one. The first project (now we are running the fourth in a row) was also a test of a new model in consulting.
Do you feel a-connect independent professionals are good team players?
Absolutely yes. This was a prerequisite for success. My team was not used to working with consultants. Without being great team players the a-connecters would not have survived the project. We appreciated their low key manner.
What surprised you about working with a-connect?
The ease of use. I did not deal with many different partners, directors, senior advisors, etc. We simply had one point of contact at a-connect plus the independent professionals doing the work on the ground. It was also fun to work with the consultants.
How would you summarize the a-connect value proposition?
Easy and quick supply of guys who are able to work with my people effectively.
Would you hire a-connect again?
Yes—whenever it makes sense.
Could you imagine having independent professionals in soccer who earn only when they play?
This thought is not too abstruse! In fact some players already have signed performance related contracts and got paid accordingly. However, given the transfer policies it will not be possible for a player to play in different clubs in the same league, so the analogy to independent professionals is limited.
What is your prediction for the 2006 World Cup championship?
From a professional standpoint Brazil is the clear favorite to win the trophy. However, emotionally I still hope that the German team can surprise all of us.
