Chapter 2: Internal Audit: Skills and Experiences of High-performing Sports Executives

In the dynamic and competitive world of elite sports, fostering high-performing leadership is essential for organizational success. The increasing complexity of sports organizations, driven by heightened financial, operational, and performance pressures, demands the need for effective internal audits to assess and nurture leadership talent. Leadership within elite sports is no longer about short-term wins but about aligning operational strategies with long-term organizational goals. High-performing sports executives play a pivotal role in creating stability, fostering innovation, and managing talent pipelines that support sustainable growth. Equally, the balance between internal promotions and external recruitment must be managed carefully to ensure a robust leadership pipeline.