Ajax managing director Menno Geelen to leave in April 2027

Ajax managing director Menno Geelen will leave the Dutch club in April 2027 after agreeing his departure with its supervisory board. Ajax says it will hire an external firm to find his successor.

Geelen, 44, joined Ajax in August 2010 and became managing director in May 2024. He said he had twice turned down the role before taking it on because he felt the club needed calm after a turbulent period.

“Working for Ajax has always been an honour. After more than 16 years, it is time for me to take the next step,” Geelen said in a statement. He said discussions with the supervisory board about his expiring contract and the club’s future had begun early and led to the decision.

Geelen said he wanted to give Ajax time to find a successor and would continue working to help the club achieve sporting success this season. He has also taken on European football roles: he was appointed to the board of European Football Clubs in September and joined UEFA’s Club Competitions Committee in February.