Andoni Iraola
*AFC Bournemouth managers Andoni Iraola and Helen Bleazard took center stage at Bournemouth University’s inaugural Vice-Chancellor’s Leadership Lecture on February 26, where they shared their unique leadership experiences. The event, held at BU’s Talbot Campus, marked the beginning of a new lecture series aimed at exploring leadership from various perspectives.
Professor Alison Honour said: “I am so grateful to Andoni and Helen for taking the time to share their own leadership journeys and experiences with us. I know I am not alone in saying that we learned a lot from their honest answers, especially as they lead in high-pressured environments, and I was impressed by their own self-reflection and adaptability in their roles.”
The lecture featured insights from both Iraola and Bleazard, who emphasized the importance of adapting their leadership styles throughout their careers. Andoni Iraola, appointed as AFC Bournemouth men’s manager in June 2023, discussed his transition into English football culture after managing teams in Spain and Cyprus. His experience highlighted the necessity of adjusting to different football cultures and environments.
Andoni Iraola said: “They spoke on leadership, dealing with pressure and their ambition to win, and I know how much it would’ve been enjoyed by those in attendance.”
Helen Bleazard, who took charge of AFC Bournemouth’s women’s team at the start of the 2025-26 season, shared her experiences of balancing management with other responsibilities. She also discussed the importance of supporting players in managing their own challenges, reflecting on the dynamic nature of leadership in sports.
The event was well-received by attendees, who appreciated the candid discussions on leadership, pressure management, and the ambition to succeed. Both Iraola and Bleazard provided valuable insights into the adaptability required in their roles, offering a glimpse into the complexities of leading in high-pressure sports environments.
The Vice-Chancellor’s Leadership Lecture series, hosted by Professor Alison Honour, aims to continue exploring leadership from diverse angles, providing a platform for leaders from various fields to share their experiences and insights.
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