Paul Barber on Football's Future and Club Sustainability - A Live Special from Emirates Stadium in London

Discover the transformation of modern football with Paul Barber, the dynamic CEO and Deputy Chairman of Brighton & Hove Albion FC. Sharing his unique journey from dreaming of being a player to becoming a top executive, Paul provides a rare glimpse into English football's evolution after Euro 96, revealing how it reshaped the commercial ambitions of the Football Association. With tales of Brighton's strategic ascent to the Premier League, Paul gives us a behind-the-scenes look into his powerful partnership with Chairman Tony Bloom, a collaboration built on trust and a shared vision that’s turned Brighton into a club capable of riveting victories against giants like Arsenal and Manchester City.

How do football clubs find hidden gem players and keep their fans engaged? Paul Barber breaks down Brighton's cutting-edge approach to player acquisition, explaining how data and algorithms help identify undervalued talent. He also shares insights into the club’s commitment to strengthening fan relationships through personalised communication and efforts to increase female participation in all aspects of the game. With a focus on inclusivity, Brighton is not just crafting a team but building a diverse and welcoming community for supporters from all walks of life.

Exploring the intricate balance between financial sustainability and high performance, Paul offers an honest discussion about the challenges and opportunities in elite sports. He highlights the camaraderie and collaboration among Premier League clubs, even amidst fierce competition. There's a thoughtful exploration of the potential impacts of regulatory changes, with Paul articulating Brighton’s desire to return to European competition. Through his expertise, we gain a profound appreciation for the relentless pursuit of excellence and the joy of competing at the sport's highest level.


This Live Special episode of Don't Forget Your Tickets was recorded at the Don't Forget Your Tickets conference at Emirates Stadium, January 23rd 2025, as the first out of 12 on-stage interviews that day. Paul Barber was interviewed by Clare Kenny.

Don't Forget Your Tickets is powered by TicketCo and hosted by TicketCo’s CEO, Carl-Erik Michalsen Moberg. The podcast was originally named TicketingPodcast.com