Michele Kang has just been appointed president of Olympique Lyonnais. This event marks a new stage in the journey of this American businesswoman with growing influence in global sports. Thus, she becomes the first woman to lead the Rhone club. This occurs at a time when OL is going through a decisive period after its relegation to Ligue 2. However, behind this appointment lies an extraordinary trajectory, forged by work, resilience, and passion.
From Korean Roots to the America of Innovation
Born in 1959 in Seoul, Michele Kang grew up in a modest family where education held a central place. Her parents, both teachers, instilled in her the importance of merit and effort. However, in 1970s South Korea, few women held positions of responsibility. From her adolescence, Michele dreamed of a different future. After studying at Ewha University and Sogang University, she left her country in the 1980s, shaken by the democracy protests in Gwangju.
Thus, with her family’s support, she moved to the United States. She earned a degree in economics from the University of Chicago, then a master’s in management from the prestigious Yale School of Management. Moreover, she was often the only woman in her class and graduated top of her class. This confirmed a fierce determination to succeed against all prejudices.
A Brilliant Career in Health and Technology
Michele Kang began her professional life as a strategy consultant for large groups. Then, she joined Northrop Grumman where she led the e-business unit and then the health division. She stood out for her ability to innovate and anticipate digital transformations.
In 2008, she founded her own company, Cognosante. This company quickly established itself as a major player in health information technology in the United States. Thus, it supported public agencies in their digital transformation and developed solutions facilitating access to care. These solutions are intended for vulnerable populations. Cognosante quickly became a reference, valued at over a billion dollars before its sale to Accenture Federal Services in 2024. This success made her a recognized figure in the American business and philanthropy world.
A Commitment to Women’s Sports and Equality
Michele Kang‘s passion for sports only emerged later. Thus, she discovered women’s football during the United States’ victory at the 2019 World Cup. This breakthrough prompted her to invest in the Washington Spirit, a leading club in the National Women’s Soccer League. Moreover, she is committed to transforming women’s practice through investments and an innovative approach. This approach concerns governance as well as the well-being of the players.
In 2022, she took the majority stake in the Washington Spirit. She also created Kynisca Sports International, a group dedicated to the development of women’s football on several continents. She invested in the London City Lionesses and, above all, became the main shareholder and then president of OL Féminin, renamed OL Lyonnes in 2024. This initiative is distinguished by a new logo and an affirmed identity. It aims to give more autonomy and visibility to the Lyon players. She thus defends the idea that women’s clubs should no longer be in the shadow of their male counterparts.
Saving OL: A Historic Challenge
The appointment of Michele Kang at the head of Olympique Lyonnais comes in a critical context. After the resignation of John Textor, the club is going through an unprecedented crisis, threatened by relegation and financial difficulties. Thus, she inherits a complex situation where everything needs to be rebuilt.
Moreover, her method contrasts with those of her predecessors. Pragmatic and humane, she relies on the collective, delegates responsibilities, and takes the time to listen. According to several industry players, she has a rare ability to unite those around her. She manages to create trust even in adversity. Badou Sambagué, a lawyer specializing in football, testifies to her professionalism and sense of commitment.
An Influential, Discreet, and Visionary Philanthropist
Alongside her economic and sports activities, Michele Kang dedicates a significant part of her fortune to philanthropy. Winner of the Horatio Alger Award 2023, she multiplies donations to the American Rugby Federation, US Soccer, and media dedicated to women’s sports like Just Women’s Sports. In 2024, she committed $55 million to support the development of female athletes in the United States.
Despite her notoriety, Michele Kang remains discreet in the media. She avoids the spotlight while asserting her style. This style is inspired by an American vision where innovation and equality guide action. In Lyon, she is already changing practices, from staff organization to the construction of a training center and the ambition of a new stadium for the OL Lyonnes.
A New Chapter for Olympique Lyonnais
At 66, Michele Kang is tackling her greatest challenge: reviving OL and proving that diversity and boldness can transform French football. For many observers, her success could serve as a model for other clubs, in France and internationally.
This portrait is part of a hot topic. However, it also reveals the depth of a commitment that goes beyond the simple sports framework. Michele Kang embodies a new way of thinking about power, innovation, and the place of women in sports and society.