Nineteen new Technical Directors met in Thailand between 21-25 August for the latest FIFA Technical Leadership Introductory Course. Leaders from a diverse list of countries including Belgium, Korea Republic, India, Sierra Leone, and Grenada were amongst those represented at the event to provide support for recently appointed Technical Directors. “The FIFA Technical Leadership Introductory Course provides support for all new Technical Directors within the first six months of them taking the role,” explains Jamie Houchen, FIFA Head of Technical Leadership. “We know this period is crucial, where new Technical Directors need support and guidance with key issues such as role clarity and stakeholder relationships. We hope the help and support gained from the course, as well as from their peers, will provide a solid foundation for Technical Directors to go on and have a long and successful period in the role.”

How new Technical Directors forge effective working relationships with their Member Association General Secretary is a key internal process and one that was addressed during the second half of the week. “It was great to welcome sixteen General Secretaries to join their Technical Directors” added Houchen. “We know how important the communication and relationship between the Technical Director and the General Secretary is to develop any football or technical programme. Therefore we create an environment where this relationship can be developed and both parties gain a greater insight and understanding into each other’s roles and responsibilities.

How new Technical Directors can utilise FIFA’s range of support services and core programmes in order to develop the game in their country was another key message communicated by FIFA staff.

“Some Member Associations have challenges in terms of staffing, budgets, and specific expertise so we spend a significant amount of time introducing Technical Directors to FIFA’s ‘toolbox’ of resources,” explains Houchen. How FIFA’s Technical Director’s Handbook, Training Centre platform, Talent Development Scheme and Coaching Development can support Technical Directors to achieve their long-term objective were all discussed, together with the importance of linking FIFA Forward 3.0 funding to maximise football development opportunities. Gifton Noel-Williams, Technical Director of Grenada was enthused by the support and insight offered on the course. “I totally loved the technical director course, all of the tutors gave us knowledge and a great insight into being a new technical director.

“I believe the purpose of a tutor and a course is to provoke the thoughts of the students and I must say congratulations to the staff because my thoughts have truly been provoked to do better and my eyes have been opened up to a much bigger picture. I’ve made some friends that I’ll have for life, both from the great group and from the staff.” Jelle Schelstraete, Technical Director of Belgium FA was also present and said: “Participation in the workshop gave me the possibility to zoom out and reflect on how our department can become more efficient. As a leader in a high-performance environment, you don’t take enough time to focus on personal development. This course challenges you to see where you can improve both professionally and on a personal level, including wellbeing and mental health. "The exchange with colleagues and General Secretaries from different confederations with other backgrounds, cultures and challenges creates an inspirational environment and real opportunity to think out of your current box.”

Patit Suphaphongs, General Secretary of Thailand praised the unique opportunity to discuss common challenges and opportunities faced by Technical Directors and General Secretaries across the world. "I am immensely grateful to FIFA for orchestrating the exceptional Technical Leadership Introductory workshop, which provided an invaluable platform for both Technical Directors and General Secretaries to delve into the intricate facets of their roles and collaborative dynamics. "The workshop's comprehensive insights, expertly guided discussions, and emphasis on effective teamwork have not only enriched our understanding but have also paved the way for enhanced collaboration and impactful leadership within the realm of football. This experience stands as a testament to FIFA's dedication to fostering knowledge, growth, and excellence in the global football community, and I extend my heartfelt appreciation for this remarkable initiative."

José Ernesto Mejía Portillo, General Secretary of Honduras concurred, saying: "I gained significant value from the seminar as it not only enabled me to recognize areas for improvement in my own work but also illuminated strategies to assist colleagues in enhancing their performance. "Moreover, the seminar underscored the significance of maintaining a harmonious equilibrium between professional commitments and personal life.”