BU Research Blog

Principal Academic Dr Tim Breitbarth (Department of Sport & Physical Activity) was invited by German Football Association (DFB) to provide CSR communication expertise to its Social Responsibility Commission. Speaking yesterday, his input focused on the interlink between CSR integration and communication, and concluded with some strategic and operational suggestions. The impact of Tims’ consultation will be felt, his presentation sparked lengthy discussion and reflection amongst members of the Commission who proposed additional action and follow-up work.

Input perhaps never been more timely

At present the DFB is challenged by investigative media stories about non-transparent financial transactions in the context of hosting the 2006 FIFA World Championship. The long-standing Commission comprises of leaders of the association (e.g. vice president, director, heads of regional football associations), leaders from civil society organisations and other relevant external experts.

Expertise on CSR drawn upon by media and academic sources

Recently, Tim was interviewed a few times on his area of expertise, e.g. for the article “Where the money comes from” in Le Monde diplomatique (www.exacteditions.com/read/diplomatique/july-2015-43324/13/3). Furthermore, amongst other, he was the lead convenor of the well-attended workshop “CSR communication in sport” at the recent 23^rd European Association for Sport Management in September; is the lead guest editor of the special issue “Governance and CSR management in sport” in Corporate Governance (ABS 2*), published in summer (www.emeraldinsight.com/toc/cg/15/2); and is co-organiser of and moderator at the industry-focused 1^st German CSR Communications Congress, held in November (www.csr-kongress.de).