Liverpool Football Club are the current European Champions and the Club World Cup Champions, and, they seem destined to soon add the English Premier League to the trophy case. Beyond this success lies a terrific case study on how to build and run any business. I think this comes from commitment in four areas.
First and foremost, they have developed a culture of cooperation. “You’ll Never Walk Alone” is more than just an anthem sung from the terraces. It represents a commitment to their fans and their community.
Second, they represent diversity both in personnel and in thought. A team owned by a company in Boston, run by a Liverpudlian, coached by a German, whose best players come from Scotland, Brazil, Egypt, Holland and Senegal. All staff are solely judged on their ability to add value. On the pitch, the player lineup is flexible and individual creativity is encouraged.
Third, they have leaders at all levels who are willing to take responsibility. Does leadership rest with Fenway Sports, or with the President Peter Moore, or coach Jürgen Klopp or team captain Jordan Henderson? The answer is all of the above.
Last, there is a commitment to constant improvement. When they take the lead, many teams would go into a defensive mode and try to “hold on” to their advantage. Liverpool do the exact opposite, they look for ways to widen their advantage.
Many teams will now look to mimic the success of Liverpool by trying to adopt their style of play. However, I believe it will be equally important to study their system of management and their culture.
Gordon Kane
Chicago
Questions about OPED guidelines or letters to the editor? Email editor Jake Kyler at jkyler@sportsbusinessjournal.com
