Menno Geelen has joined the board of European Football Clubs (EFC, formerly ECA), the biggest and most influential representative body for European clubs. The Ajax chief executive was officially appointed during Tuesday's election in Copenhagen. The KNVB and Eredivisie unanimously backed Geelen's appointment.
"The EFC Board is the highest decision-making body within European club football. The board consists of representatives of European clubs and independent experts. For Dutch football, a voice on this board is of great value," Ajax said in a statement on their website.
Previously, Geelen was elected to the UEFA Club Competitions Committee. "This committee deals with European club competitions at a strategic level and advises on subjects such as competition format, distribution of money, access criteria, draw procedures and the allocation of European finals."
De Telegraaf report that Geelen is replacing Dennis te Kloese within the EFC. Te Kloese had to give up his place after leaving Feyenoord's board.
Now at Monterrey in Mexico, Te Kloese worked within the EFC between 2023 and 2026. Geelen's appointment means the Netherlands once again have a representative within the body.
Since 2010, Geelen has been with Ajax and has worked in a number of roles, including commercial director. In March 2025, he was appointed chief executive on a contract running until mid-2027.
Last week, it was also announced that the Ajax director is waiving a bonus. Geelen believes that, given the disappointing season on the sporting side, he does not deserve one.