To run Kotoko you must be able to put your hand in fire – Herbert Mensah

Former Asante Kotoko Chief Executive Officer, Herbert Mensah has stressed that one needs to be bold enough in decision making to be able to succeed as the CEO of the Porcupine Warriors.

Mensah – who is the leader of the Ghana Rugby Association, was appointed to lead the Porcupine Warriors in 1999, when the team was in a sorry state.

Through the introduction of a 5-year development plan, he together with the management restored the clubs glory days. His plan positioned the club well on the Africa continent.
He is often credited for making a major contribution towards changing the face of Ghanaian professional football.

Speaking in an interview with Kumasi-based Oyerepa FM, he noted that adequate preparations and proper management of the supporters would make one successful. According to him the supporters are the most important stakeholders of the Reds, and must be accorded the needed respect.

“Kotoko is an institution, it’s too big. To run Kotoko, you must be able to put your hand in fire and not fear the flames,” he told Kumasi-based Oyerepa FM.

“You must be prepared to do it and the people who are important are the supporters.They are the only people that are so important so they have to see that you who is holding the team can hold the fire.

“That’s why we took on the GFA and other political elements and we kept winning.

He also indicated that running Kotoko is not about achieving something on the local front, but thinking beyond winning at home.

“Kotoko is too big to play a second fiddle to any team but if you think Kotoko’s job is to compete with any local side,it’s a problem.”