Bayern Munich has announced a two-year extension of CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen’s contract, securing his leadership role at the club through June 2027. The decision was unanimously approved by the club’s supervisory board, emphasizing Bayern’s commitment to stability and continuity at the top.
Dreesen, 57, has been instrumental in guiding the club through challenging times since taking over as CEO last year, following the dismissal of former CEO Oliver Kahn and sporting director Hasan Salihamidžic on the same day Bayern secured its 11th consecutive Bundesliga title. Dreesen, who had been with Bayern since 2013, initially joined from the banking sector before rising to vice-chairman of the supervisory board in 2014 and then assuming the CEO role in 2023.
In a statement, Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer expressed confidence in Dreesen’s leadership, saying, “Dreesen took over the chairmanship of the board during a difficult phase and quickly led FC Bayern Munich AG back into calmer waters. We want to continue on this path together. We’re certain he is the right person to tackle the challenges ahead.”
Dreesen’s tenure has seen some challenges, including Bayern’s failure to win the Bundesliga last season, ending a decade-long dominance as Bayer Leverkusen claimed the title. However, under his guidance, the club has shown early promise this season, sitting five points clear at the top of the league after 10 rounds under new coach Vincent Kompany.
The extension of Dreesen’s contract also comes amid further changes at Bayern, including the appointment of Christopher Freund as sporting director and Max Eberl as the board member for sport. Additionally, Michael Diederich remains the club’s CFO.
Looking ahead, Bayern Munich is poised to announce another year of record revenues at its annual general meeting on December 8, 2024. The club’s leadership remains confident in Dreesen’s ability to navigate the challenges that lie ahead, as it looks to maintain its dominance both domestically and in European football.
