He has finished his first months as the new general manager at Roda JC Kerkrade: Jordens Peters. “Through my conversations I noticed how big Roda JC is,” says Peters looking back.
In EveningGuests Sports he spoke about his plans, possible promotion and the collaboration with the Phoenix Group.
100 days
Peters was presented as the new director in Kerkrade at the beginning of October, a few months after his football retirement. Since then, Peters has had many conversations. “Then you notice how big Roda JC is and how many people are involved. As a football player you realize that there are many spectators, but as a director you also have to deal with the people around the club.” After more than 100 days, Peters says he has gained a good insight into the organization.
multi-year plan
Peters’ main focus at the moment is on a multi-year plan. “With this we can lay a new foundation under the club by showing everyone who we are and what we want to radiate. I think football clubs should be strong brands.” Peters hopes to be a connector in Kerkrade. “Everyone knows that with Roda all egos have to be put aside and I try to bring a certain energy with me. I don’t carry the past with me, that can also be an advantage.”
Phoenix
Peters also spoke about his contact with the Phoenix Group, an investment group that is pumping a total of 4.5 million euros into Roda JC in three years. “That contact is very good. I also take them with me, whatever I’m doing.” Peters cannot yet say whether the agreement with Phoenix will be extended. “I think the ball is in our court. As a club, we have to show that we are going to make policy, that we are going to take commercial steps and that there will be a good flow in the club. We have to prove that we can be self-reliant.”
Promotion
From a sporting point of view, Roda JC is having a good season. The Kerkrades have not lost since November and are well on their way to a place in the play-offs to force promotion to the Eredivisie. “As a club you are always ready for promotion,” says Peters about a possible promotion to the Eredivisie. “If you are going to take a step, which is always welcome, you as an organization must also be able to carry it. We are working on that in the background. But we would like to do our PhD.”