Henrik von Eckermann: How to manage a world-champion stable

The reigning show jumping world champion is heading to Aachen in August for the FEI World Championships. Ahead of the event, he discusses in an interview what it takes to manage a successful stable and the role the Equestrian Stable Management Program plays for future staff.

What does it take to run a successful equestrian stable?

Henrik von Eckermann: Good staff is the key to it. Most of my employees have been with us for a very long time, and that’s very important to me. I don’t want the staff to change every other day; instead, I try to ensure they’re as satisfied as possible. Of course, they must also carry out their work properly, but it’s a case of give and take. Through long-term collaboration, they also get to know the horses very well, and at the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about.

What is the structure of your team?

Henrik von Eckermann: We have our stable manager, Ann, in the office, who takes care of the administration, which makes up a large part of our business these days. There’s so much paperwork that needs to be sorted out when we’re travelling abroad almost every week, to different countries with different horses. She keeps track of it all. Then, of course, we have the grooms and assistants in the stables, and then there’s my better half, my wife Janika. She’s the one who organises our staff.

Why is it so important to you personally to have a good team?

Henrik von Eckermann: I’m on the road a lot. That’s why it’s very, very important that I can stay calm and focus on my work, safe in the knowledge that everything’s fine at home. Every day is different, even if from the outside it often looks as though every day is the same – but that’s by no means the case.

How can the “Equestrian Stable Management Program” help in the future?

Henrik von Eckermann: I think it’s excellent that there is now a document proving that people are actually qualified for the job. We place a great deal of responsibility on our staff, and with a certificate, you can see straight away that they have the necessary qualifications and can be trusted. Further education is hugely important for the advancement of equestrian sport. In our industry, you can never have enough knowledge; you must maintain the desire to learn new things.