Heldt appointed new managing director of Union Berlin

FC Union Berlin have confirmed Horst Heldt as their new managing director of men's professional football.

After six years in the role, Oliver Ruhnert will return to the position of chief scout at his own request, the club announced.

"We will start the new season with new personnel,”said Union Berlin president Dirk Zingler, adding: 

“In Horst Heldt, we have gained an experienced Bundesliga manager who will join us in the summer, but who is already involved in all planning. Oliver Ruhnert will remain with us, will work closely with Horst Heldt and will drive forward the squad planning for the new season

"We would like to thank Oliver Ruhnert for his commitment over the last few years. His work has played a major role in the sporting success of our club. I am happy that we can continue to count on him and look forward to working with Horst Heldt and him."

Heldt, who previously served in similar roles at Stuttgart, Schalke 04, Hannover 96 and FC Köln, said:

"Union have been a stable force in German professional football for many years; a calm, well-managed club.

"Their development in recent years has been extraordinarily rapid and extremely impressive. It is not surprising that we have to cope with a difficult season from time to time. That's part of establishing yourself in the Bundesliga and can prove to be very valuable in the future. I am proud to be working for 1. FC Union Berlin from now on and will contribute my experience here in order for us to be successful together."