Michele Centenaro has a deep knowledge and enthusiasm for sport, its values and rules, its entrepreneurial and political dynamics as well as its intrinsic socio-cultural function.

An all-rounder sports executive with 30 years of experience in the sports industry – particularly in football – with top-level functions both within the private enterprise as well as in sports policymakers within high profile international football federations/organisations.

He lived in depth the real passion for the game and the so called “locker-room” spirit as semi-professional footballer in Italy while, at the same time, starting his professional career at the Italian sporting goods company Diadora Spa where he eventually held the position of Worldwide Director Sponsorship & Communication.

Michele then joined UEFA as Head of Club Competitions where he was notably responsible for the sporting, regulatory and marketing development of UEFA’s prime club competitions, such as the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League.

His strong connections and deep knowledge of European football allowed him to successfully perform the role of General Secretary of EFC for over a decade, being fundamental part of the most significant sporting and political developments.