The transformation of management boards in Swiss sports associations is a complex process that is influenced by various factors such as social changes, new regulatory requirements, increasing expectations of transparency and professionalism as well as the diversification of the sports landscape.
The transformation is a necessary step in order to meet current and future requirements. A mix of professionalism, diversity, technological innovation and social responsibility will be crucial to ensure the long-term success of the associations. Cooperation with national and international organizations, a clear focus on the needs of members and a focus on ethical and sustainable principles are key factors for a successful transformation.
Sandra Vontobel had the opportunity to talk to Marisa Reich (member of the board of Swiss Cycling) about the transformation of governing bodies in Swiss sports associations. This resulted in an exciting and inspiring interview.
Marisa Reich
Marisa Reich a sports enthusiast with over twenty years of experience in various areas of sport. Marisa has in-depth expertise in professional athlete management, has been responsible for the communication, personnel and culture of national and international companies in sport, works on a mandate basis and is a lecturer in sports management at the Swiss Distance-Learning University of Applied Sciences (FFHS). As a member of the board of Swiss Cycling, she is also jointly responsible for the strategic direction of a large association. Marisa has a large network in the sports environment and, as honorary chairwoman of the board of She Sports Switzerland, actively advocates for women in sport.
Sandra Vontobel is a partner and co-owner of De Bord International, an executive search boutique in Zurich, and worked for an international sports marketing company for over ten years. At De Bord, she is responsible, among other things, for appointments to management bodies in associations and clubs.
Sandra:
Marisa, what motivated you to take on the role on the board of Swiss Cycling?
Marisa:
With my diverse experience in the sports sector, I can bring multi-layered perspectives and strategic approaches to the association.
My main task at Swiss Cycling is strategic management in order to further develop and sustainably promote the association and cycling in Switzerland. This is not just about professional sport, but also about grassroots sport and the targeted promotion of young talent. Of course, my tasks also include the topic of women's cycling, which is close to my heart, for example through projects such as “Fast and Female” or the establishment of the Tour de Suisse Women.
Questioning existing structures, open communication and looking at things from different perspectives are important elements in the further development of the sport. Through my external representation, I am committed to positioning Swiss Cycling as a modern and inclusive association.
Sandra:
How do you rate the representation of women on governing bodies in sport in general and in leadership roles in sports associations in particular?
Marisa:
There have been encouraging signs of change in the Swiss sports world in recent years, but there is still a long way to go to achieve true gender parity in leadership positions. A sustainable transformation requires a holistic approach that promotes women at all levels of sport - from athletes to coaches to managers.
It is crucial to create an inclusive ecosystem that supports and inspires women from grassroots sport to the highest levels of leadership. This includes targeted support programs that identify and develop talent, as well as a culture that encourages women to take on leadership roles and pursue professional and innovative paths in sport. Only through this comprehensive approach can we create a sporting world in which women are equally represented at all levels and can develop their full potential.
Sandra:
Do women bring different skills and perspectives to a governing body?
Marisa:
Women often bring strong interpersonal skills such as empathy, communication and conflict management. Women also tend to focus more on ethical aspects, which leads to a more holistic view of decisions and their effects. Furthermore, women in management positions contribute to increasing creativity and innovation. Their often different perspectives and experiences broaden the perspective of the entire team and promote more diverse, sustainable solutions. These skills are valuable for establishing a modern, sustainable management culture. However, interaction within the entire committee is always important.
Sandra:
In 2025, the changes to the Sports Promotion Ordinance will come into force, according to which organizations that receive funding from the federal government must have a gender quota of at least 40%. What do you think of this?
Marisa:
In my opinion, the gender quota is necessary, but I only see it as a temporary tool. Since the Beijing Declaration of 1995, we have seen that voluntary measures alone are not enough to achieve a more balanced gender representation. The quota is the only effective lever to establish a diverse leadership culture. However, achieving progress through regulation alone is not enough - change must also be anchored in the structures. This should also be the task of the Management Board.
Sandra:
It is obvious that there are sports that are essentially male-dominated. How should these associations deal with the new regulation?
Marisa:
These associations are facing a very difficult task. It takes courage and the will to change from the very top. However, it is also a great opportunity to realign an association, to question the existing structures and to consider which competencies should be available for the future challenges in the management body.
External sparring can help to identify and prioritize the many current issues and define measures. This also includes the search for qualified women for the management bodies.
Sandra:
What advice would you give to women who want to pursue a career in the management of sports associations?
Marisa:
Women also need to raise their profile, make their skills visible and communicate their goals. Ambitions should be expressed openly. Sometimes you have to take detours to achieve a goal. This should always be clearly in mind and consistently pursued. Be a role model for others, don't get discouraged and always work on knowing your own strengths and building on them. External sparring can also help here.
Thank you Marisa for these exciting insights!
