Meet The Team: Joachim Walltin

In this series, we'll be introducing you to the great people who work at FIFPRO .

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Tell us about yourself, what is your current role, and what’s your background?

I am from Norway, where I played professional football in the country’s top flight. After I retired in 2007, I worked for 普华永道 and then the Norwegian player union NISO, where I was the President for 10 years. I joined FIFPRO during the pandemic in 2020, as the General Secretary of Division Europe, and it was an exciting move to Amsterdam with my family.

I was lucky to already know the organisation and many people very well, through my role at NISO, which is one of FIFPRO’s member unions. I served as a board member of FIFPRO Europe for seven years, an invaluable experience prior to my role of General Secretary for the division, which comprises half of all FIFPRO members.

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What do you do at FIFPRO? What does an average week look like?

During a typical week, when I am not travelling for work, I am at FIFPRO House with my great colleagues. I carry out my duties in accordance with the directives of the FIFPRO Europe Board, collaborating closely with the President and the rest of the board. Currently, we oversee 36 player unions across Europe, and I’m fortunate to have support from our new FIFPRO Division Coordinator Mateo Peyrouzet García-Si?eriz . Our work requires collaboration with all of FIFPRO’s different departments.

Beyond my work with the European Board and member unions, I regularly engage with the various stakeholders in European football, including UEFA, leagues, clubs, fans. I also represent FIFPRO Europe in discussions with the European Commission through EU Social Dialogue, and our EU-funded project ROGE25, supporting the professionalisation of women's football.

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What are you aiming to achieve with the work you do?

All of us at FIFPRO work for our member unions and the players they represent. It is my duty and responsibility to facilitate the improvement of working conditions for professional football players. My mandate is for Europe, but given its status in world football, it’s imperative that we extend our support to players and unions all over the world.

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Professionally, what are you excited about right now?

The outcome of the European Court of Justice cases in December and the growing momentum for better governance, where the voice of players and other stakeholders are not only heard, but also actively affect decision-making for the betterment of football as a whole. It is essential to strive for professional conditions where contracts are honoured, and there exists a healthy competitive balance in men’s and women’s football.

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If you could change one thing about football, what would it be?

That it’s not all about money! I would like to see a change of direction and development of football, with more focus on the quality and sustainability of the game. It’s time to prioritise competitive games and competitions, showcasing the best players performing at their peak. In this environment, we will not only elevate the spectacle, but also the game’s commercial appeal.

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What do you do to relax?

To unwind, I like to spend time with my family: my wife and seven-year-old daughter. I also enjoy exploring our neighbourhood in Amstelveen, Amsterdam, and other interesting places in the Netherlands. We are very impressed with all the nice villages and cities reachable within a short distance in this country. I also like to a run, listen to music, and take in a concert here or there. When I have the opportunity, usually at Christmas or Easter, I try to get back to Norway for skiing.

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How can people follow what you get up to?

You can follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, or X.