The SLO Spotlight series returns for its first edition of 2025 with Norwegian club Molde FK SLO Svein Erik Jenset the first to feature.
With the next rounds of UEFA’s club competitions recommencing, we’re speaking to a supporter liaison officer from a club in the mix of the knockout phases.
Molde FK are competing in this season’s UEFA Conference League and have faced clubs from seven different nations so far with several away matches. As Svein Erik expands on below, European away matches can provide ‘new challenges’.
How long have you been your club’s SLO, and what made you want to take on the role?
“I started in August 2021, not really knowing what I was getting myself into. However, having been a supporter for well over 20 years—both in the stands and as chair of the supporters’ club—it didn’t take much convincing when a long-time friend asked if I’d be interested. And I suppose he knew who to ask because my enthusiasm for the role has only grown over the years!”
Molde FK has qualified for the UEFA Conference League knockout stages. How has your experience working at these matches differed from regular domestic fixtures?
“Simply put, domestic matches are easy! We all know where we’re going, we’ve all been there before, we speak the same language, and we usually know the stewards, security, and police from previous visits, so we know what to expect. In European matches, all of that changes—new country, new city, new language, new security forces… new challenges. But challenges exist to be overcome and finding the right balance to ensure a great matchday experience for everyone is a big part of the SLO’s job.”
How have you found the experience of working at European away matches?
“If I had to sum it up in one word, it would be ‘diverse’. A lot depends on how well the SLO role is recognised in the country we’re visiting. We’ve been fortunate to be ‘frequent fliers’ in Europe over the past decade, so I’ve seen both great examples (special mention to my Swedish and German colleagues!) and some less impressive ones.”
How well are you known by the staff at Molde FK and the club’s fans?
“I think most people at the club know me, but I’m not entirely sure they understand what I do or how they can make full use of my role. That said, we’re making progress every season, so I’m hopeful we’ll continue developing the role into something truly valuable. As for the fanbase, I’d say all the most active supporters know me, understand my role, and know how to make use of it. I also feel they really appreciate the role and what it has done to improve their cooperation with, and understanding of, the club.”
Tell us about your role at the club! Are you employed? Part-time? Volunteer?
“For the first three and a half years, I worked as a volunteer with my travel expenses covered. However, after our fans reached out to the club’s CEO last year, I was offered a contract that took effect on 1 January. Now, I receive compensation for lost income along with an agreed-upon annual bonus.”
How well do you know the other SLOs in Norway? Do you support each other a lot?
“The Norwegian SLO community is fantastic! While there have been some changes over the past few seasons, there are many experienced SLOs alongside a steady stream of newcomers eager to push the role—and their clubs—to new heights. We stay in touch regularly and try to meet as a group once or twice per season.”
What advice would you give to those new to the SLO role?
“First and foremost, think not only of your own fans but also of visiting supporters. If you can enhance their matchday experience when they visit your club, chances are you’ll be met with the same courtesy when you travel. Secondly—network, network, network! The better you know the people you’ll be working with, the easier your job will be. Finally, dedicate the necessary time to perform your role properly. In my experience, it’s not something that can be done successfully without research, communication, and a willingness to share knowledge with those you support.”
You took part in the UEFA Academy SLO training, led by FSE, a while ago. What were your key takeaways?
“Probably a few unprintable words, followed by, ‘What have I gotten myself into?’ It was overwhelming, especially as I had practically no handover from the previous SLO and the club wasn’t particularly accustomed to having an active one. It felt like I had a mountain to climb. Looking back now, after pushing through that initial uncertainty, I realise it instilled in me a strong belief system—one I’ve unconsciously relied on time and again.”
You also attended the trilateral (UEFA/FSE/ECA) SLO meeting in Nyon that focused on UCC. What did you learn there?
“I’d say it further opened my eyes to the channels available to us as SLOs and how we can apply pressure to drive change from multiple angles. It also gave me insight into how the role operates in other clubs and countries, allowing me to learn from both their successes and their challenges. And, of course, it was great to meet colleagues face-to-face—some for the first time, and others I’ve gotten to know quite well over the years.”
In Norway, there is a big debate about VAR, with many supporters expressing criticism. How has that affected your work as an SLO?
“It would certainly be easier without the added tension—that goes without saying! It’s not always easy to set aside personal feelings and advocate for one side or the other, regardless of which way you lean. It’s even harder when, in some cases, you feel like you’re the last person to be informed about something. I’m not saying that including me in every meeting or having me review all communications beforehand would solve everything, but I’d like to think that maybe—just maybe—I could serve as a bridge between two cultures, playing a small role in preventing misunderstandings.”
FSE would like to sincerely thank Svein Erik and Molde FK for taking part in the interview.
The previous interview in the series with Girona FC SLO Júlia Barbany can be found here.
Learn more about SLOs and FSE’s role in developing the SLO position here.
Contact us to find out more about the Supporter Liaison Officer role here.