Tatjana Haenni, a former Switzerland international and one of the most respected figures in global football administration, has been named chief executive of RB Leipzig—making her the first woman to serve as CEO of a Bundesliga club. The groundbreaking announcement was made on Wednesday, marking a historic milestone for German football and women’s leadership in the sport.

Haenni will officially assume her role on January 1, 2026, taking charge of one of Germany’s most competitive clubs at a pivotal moment in their development.

A Trailblazing Career in Global Football

Following her playing career, Haenni built a distinguished reputation in football governance. She spent more than a decade at FIFA, where she worked extensively on the development and global expansion of the women’s game. Her experience includes:

• Leading women’s football initiatives within FIFA
• Serving as head of women’s football at the Swiss Football Association
• Working as sports director for the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in the United States

Her wide-reaching influence and administrative experience have made her one of the most accomplished women in world football.

RB Leipzig Hails Haenni’s Leadership and Vision

Oliver Mintzlaff, chair of RB Leipzig’s supervisory board, said Haenni stood out immediately during the selection process.

“In our discussions, she impressed us and the committees with her expertise, as well as her combination of specialist knowledge, leadership strength, and strategic thinking,” Mintzlaff said in a club statement. He emphasized that Haenni’s appointment represents a major step forward for Leipzig’s leadership model and long-term sporting ambitions.

Haenni Looks Ahead to Ambitious Future With Leipzig

At 59, Haenni brings not only decades of experience but also an eagerness to guide Leipzig into a new era. In her first public comments, she expressed excitement and confidence about the challenges ahead.

“I am very much looking forward to this new role,” she said. “I am convinced that with strong teamwork and a focus on RB Leipzig’s strengths, we can tap into significant potential.”

She added that she is eager to immerse herself fully in the club beginning in January:
“Together, we want to continue on what is already a successful path and achieve our ambitious goals.”

RB Leipzig’s Sporting Context

RB Leipzig, owned by energy drink giant Red Bull, have established themselves as a consistent top-tier contender since their rise to the Bundesliga. As of mid-December 2025, the club sits second in the Bundesliga standings, eight points behind leaders Bayern Munich.

The Bundesliga is preparing for its winter break from December 21 to January 9, giving Haenni a window to begin preparations for her new role before the league resumes.

A Landmark Moment for German Football

Haenni’s appointment is being widely celebrated as a significant step for gender representation in football leadership. While women have increasingly held senior roles in coaching, refereeing, and administration, the position of CEO at a men’s top-flight club has remained male-dominated—until now.

Her historic leadership at RB Leipzig may influence broader change across Europe’s top leagues, inspiring more clubs to diversify their executive structures.