LEADERSHIP PERCEIVED BY FORMER TOP-LEVEL ATHLETES IN THE ROLE OF BUSINESS MANAGER

Abstract: The aim of this thesis, using interpretive approach, is to explore how former top-level athletes perceive leadership in their role as manager. Furthermore, how they perceive they transfer their experience in sport to their managerial role. We build our study on theories about leadership, followership, life skill development in sports and life skill transfer process. The fieldwork of this study included open semi-structured in-depth interviews with former top- level athletes who have experience working in managerial positions. The aim of the interviews was to examine managers perceived leadership. We construct the study on abductive approach. Our findings indicate a shared understanding of leadership among our managers and there are strong signs that extensive experience in sports does influence managers mindset on how their view leadership. In conclusion the study draws upon additional dimension that is provided to one's view on leadership.