There’s a change at the top of FC Bayern. The second vice president is stepping down after ten years. His successor is already in place.
FC Bayern is partially restructuring its executive committee. Walter Mennekes will step down from his position as second vice president on November 20 at his own request. The German record champions officially announced this on Wednesday.
The 78-year-old has already informed President Herbert Hainer and First Vice President Professor Dr. Dieter Mayer of his decision. At the same time, his intended successor has been named: The executive committee has appointed Marko Pesic to the position.
However, the transition is not yet complete. In accordance with the club’s bylaws, the members must confirm Pesic’s nomination at the annual general meeting on November 21. The 49-year-old will then, like Mennekes, assume responsibility for the club’s sports departments.
Hainer paid extensive tribute to the work of the outgoing Vice President: “On behalf of the entire club, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Walter Mennekes. For ten years, he has filled the role of Second Vice President with his unique humanity, zest for life, and passion. Walter was more than just an official: In his role, he consistently drove the further development of our sports departments and, with his warmth, humor, energy, and extraordinary connection with people, was a beloved figure in our club.”
Pesic to continue FC Bayern’s rejuvenation efforts
With Pesic, Bayern is simultaneously opting for a significantly younger solution from within its own ranks. “By passing the baton within the FC Bayern family to Marko Pesic, we are continuing the rejuvenation of the club’s leadership. Marko knows FC Bayern from his many years leading our basketball team. He knows what this club is all about, and he embodies both fresh momentum and proven paths to the greatest successes. Marko Pesic represents the next generation, further setting the course for the future—and at the same time ensuring continuity within the club,” explained Hainer.
Mennekes has been with FC Bayern since 1993. In 2009, he became a member of the Administrative Advisory Board, and seven years later he was elected second vice president. In addition to the various sports departments, child protection was a key area of his responsibility.
Mennekes had made his retirement contingent on a smooth succession: “I told the Executive Committee frankly that I would step aside once a successor was in place. That is now the case with Marko Pesic.”
For his part, Pesic brings years of leadership experience within the club. The former German national basketball player worked in the basketball division for about 15 years and assumed sole responsibility as CEO in 2019. Last year, he stepped down from his position as managing director and subsequently remained with Bayern as an advisor to the Executive Board.
“The office of second vice president of FC Bayern is a great honor for me and, at the same time, a great responsibility. On November 21, the members will decide, and I approach this decision with the utmost respect,” Pesic explained.
Should the members approve, the succession will be seamlessly arranged: One day after Mennekes’ resignation, Pesic could be officially confirmed as the new second vice president at the annual general meeting.