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"Not Rocket Science": Paul Barber's common-sense approach to Brighton's success

IMAGO

IMAGO | Paul Barber, CEO of Brighton & Hove Albion.

Paul Barber, having become CEO of Brighton 11 years ago, has led the team's ascent from League One to the Premier League's top six. In an exclusive interview he reveals the philosophy that has helped shape the club.

The club's approach, including advanced scouting, data analytics, and profitable player trading, is considered the gold standard in football management. However, Barber views his management methods as inherent in other industries.

Why it matters: Moises Caicedo’s British record sale to Chelsea once more highlighted the club's "moneyball" approach. Brighton are the club everyone wants to emulate.

The perspective: Barber says that the calm and analytical decision-making of himself and owner Tony Bloom, even in emotionally charged situations, is a large part of Brighton’s off-pitch success.

16 August 2023 - 1:30 PM

In an industry that has a habit of elevating its success stories to the rank of demi-Gods, it would perhaps be easy for Paul Barber to assume the role of a football executive “guru”; a Yoda-like figure dispensing wisdom to a profession he has left trailing in his wake.

Since becoming Brighton & Hove Albion CEO eleven years ago, Barber has overseen the elevation of the club from League One to the top six of the Premier League and Europe. But

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