IMG appoints Robert Klein to lead football business

IMG Media has appointed Robert Klein to as managing director, head of global football.

Klein will start in January with over 25 years’ experience in the industry, most recently as Bundesliga International - which he set up in 2017 to sell the international media rights to Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 matches across all platforms, as well as global licensing and sponsorship rights. He also built the league’s global communications and marketing teams.

Before Bundesliga International, Klein was head of global rights at Red Bull Media House, and he has also worked with UEFA and Eurovision Sport in his career.

Adam Kelly, president of IMG Media, said: “Robert will drive our global football business to new levels, working with and expanding our football team to deliver transformative growth for existing and new partners. His stellar reputation, experience and relationships will further bolster the unique set of capabilities, expertise and network that enable us to add value for rightsholders around the world.”

Klein added: “I have been impressed by the first-class team IMG Media has built over recent years, as well as their energy and focus on pioneering new, ground-breaking projects. They have a unique offering that I’m looking forward to further leveraging with the football community. To join IMG at this time and be given the opportunity and backing to build out a world-class football group was too good to resist. The ambition levels are high and I can’t wait to get started in January 2023.”