After years of dedicated service as Co-Founder, Chief Partnerships Officer, and, more recently, Deputy CEO, Kristian’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the organization, building on his extensive experience and leadership.
Geneva, 12 September 2025
The Football Business Academy (FBA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Kristian Dobrev as its new Chief Executive Officer. This transition marks a significant milestone for the organization as it embarks on its next phase of growth under Kristian’s leadership.
“I am incredibly proud of what we have built at The Football Business Academy over the past ten years,” said Dorian Esterer, Co-Founder and outgoing CEO. “Starting from scratch, we have grown The FBA into a thriving institution that has become a benchmark in the football industry. It has been an extraordinary journey, and I am honored to have witnessed over 350 alumni succeed in entering the football industry and building meaningful careers. I am equally proud to be leaving the company in very good standing, with a strong foundation for future growth and success.”
Dorian Esterer will step down after decade of successfully leading The FBA to embrace new professional challenges. Although he is stepping back from the operational side of things, Esterer will remain fully committed to The FBA’s future as Vice-Chairman and largest shareholder of the company, overseeing the academy’s strategic development. This decision is aimed at facilitating fresh leadership to guide the academy into its next chapter.
“I have complete confidence in Kristian’s performance as the new CEO,” Esterer added. “I am sure that under his leadership, The FBA will continue to innovate and thrive. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone related to The FBA—our alumni, students, staff, board of directors, shareholders, and partners. Your dedication and support have been instrumental in making The FBA what it is today. I look forward to seeing The FBA continue to flourish and achieve new heights under Kristian’s leadership.”
Kristian Dobrev, who witnessed The FBA come to life as Co-Founder and has served as Chief Partnerships Officer and, in more years, as Deputy CEO, will now assume the role of Chief Executive Officer, leading a talented team of professionals. His extensive experience and leadership within the organization position him well to drive The FBA forward, building on its successes in alignment with the company’s mission of developing current and future football industry leaders. The FBA has experienced rapid growth and market leadership over the years, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Co-Founders in realizing their vision. In this spirit, the entire FBA community is deeply grateful for Dorian Esterer’s guidance, passion, and dedication, and looks forward to Kristian Dobrev continuing his legacy in this exciting new chapter.
“I am extremely optimistic about the future of The FBA and thrilled to be asked by the board to lead its next chapter. For the past 8+ years, we’ve been building our leadership position in football business education through innovative programs, a community-centric approach, and a unique partnership model. Dorian has been a driving force in getting us to where we are today, and I will always cherish the countless discussions, brainstorms, and experiences we’ve had along the way. Looking ahead, there are still large swaths of the football industry that can be professionalized and new talent from around the world to be brought in. I’m excited to continue working alongside our great team to advance our mission, profoundly impact the people we serve, and ultimately expand our scope so that the youth of tomorrow can continue to be inspired by the beautiful game,” said Kristian Dobrev.
ABOUT THE FBA
The Football Business Academy is a global leader in football business education whose goal is to accelerate the professionalization of the football industry and develop current and future leaders in the game. Founded in 2017 and based in Switzerland, The FBA is best known for its flagship degree – the Professional Master in Football Business – which is a 12-month program with two intakes each year.
Furthermore, various football-related stakeholders seek the services of The FBA for the creation and/or delivery of a variety of tailor-made workshops, certificates, or diplomas. Other partners of The FBA include CONMEBOL, NWSL, USL, Belgian FA, Saudi Pro League, Club Nacional de Football, UNAFUT, Brighton & Hove Albion, Socios.com, Rangers FC, SL Benfica, Mazatlán FC, Common Goal, Double Pass and Samba Digital.
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