Drawing from over fifteen years of experience in technical scouting, academy development and high-performance management across Europe and the Middle East, Steven Vanharen has established himself as a central architect of modern football projects.
Currently serving as the sporting and technical director of ETO FC Gyor, he has led the club to a historic position at the top of the Hungarian first division as of early 2026. Under his direction, the club has transformed into a dominant force in the league, characterised by a sophisticated recruitment philosophy and a commitment to long-term structural stability.
His professional journey is defined by a "process-driven" approach to club building. He combines on-pitch tactical knowledge with a data-first recruitment strategy, often utilising advanced platforms to simulate how international signings will adapt to the specific physical and tactical tempo of the Hungarian game. This methodology has allowed him to mitigate risk and ensure that every addition to the squad fits a very specific tactical identity.
Prior to his success in Hungary, he held a unique multi-club leadership role within the United World group, where he oversaw scouting operations for organisations including Sheffield United in England, Beerschot in Belgium and LB Chateauroux in France. His international experience also includes significant tenures in Saudi Arabia, Greece and Poland, providing him with a global perspective on talent development and the administrative pressures of elite, title-winning environments.
A dedicated advocate for the integration of technology in sports, he believes that while data should direct a club's attention, the final validation of a player’s character remains a human responsibility. His work at ETO FC Gyor is a testament to this balance, as he continues to bridge the gap between technical coaching and strategic executive management to foster a sustainable and winning culture.
