Sune Smith-Nielsen to become new Sports Director at F.C. Copenhagen
Sune Smith-Nielsen will take up the position of Sports Director at F.C. Copenhagen on 1 July 2024.
Sune has been appointed to the role after working for FCK for almost 16 years across the talent department, where he has most recently worked as Development Director.
"We consider Sune Smith-Nielsen to be one of Denmark's greatest footballing experts," ," says FCK Chairman Henrik Møgelmose.
"He is a strong leader who, with a clear strategic focus, manages to create high-performance environments at an international level. We know his ambition and dedication, and for us, he is the perfect fit for the job of Sports Director. Therefore, we are very pleased that Sune has accepted the position."
In addition to a strong footballing profile, Sune has worked as a coach and has a master's degree in Human Resource Management from Copenhagen Business School.
Since 2008, Sune has been primarily responsible for the establishment and development of the club's now internationally-recognised Talent Department.
"Sune Smith-Nielsen's results speak for themselves," adds Henrik. "It has been impressive to witness the development of the Talent Department, which he has led. His approach to football, his understanding of the game, and his work with the FCK model is truly unique.
"The board has conducted a thorough search process with several potential candidates, and we are very proud that we have found our new Sports Director from within our own ranks. Sune is a cultural bearer in the club, and he knows all about the ambitions and expectations he must meet. For us, there is no doubt that Sune Smith-Nielsen can take us to the next level as Sports Director for F.C. Copenhagen."
Sune: Work is already underway
Sune himself is looking forward to taking on the top sporting responsibility at F.C. Copenhagen.
"I have a great love for F.C. Copenhagen, where every day I am surrounded by sharp, passionate colleagues at Number 10, in the Talent Department, and in Parken," he says.
"What unites us all are strong international ambitions. In my 16 years at the club, I have always been driven by creating development and results, and therefore I am also incredibly happy to be appointed Sports Director.
"In the short term, we need to assemble a first-team squad that can reach the group stage of the UEFA Conference League and achieve international results as well as win the Danish Championship in the coming season.
"That work is already underway, and I will, of course, continue building on it together with the scouting department, the coaching staff, and the other talented people around the team.
"Additionally, my task will be to strengthen our strategy, further develop the first-team squad, and also contribute to developing and optimising the staff and sporting performance at Number 10. We must also continue our important focus on talent development, which is a very significant element in the club's overall strategy.
"This is a challenge I am very much looking forward to taking on, and I have many ambitions in my role as Sports Director. I look forward to getting started."
Sune Smith-Nielsen will take over the position of Sports Director from Peter Christiansen, who is moving to VfL Wolfsburg, on 1 July.