In 1980, Bernès began selling membership cards for Olympique de Marseille, in order to try and help their financial difficulties. In Autumn 1981, he joined the club working in administration. In 1989, he became the club's general manager. In 1993, Bernès was involved in the French football bribery scandal. The incident involved bribing three Valenciennes to underperform in a match against Marseille, so that Marseille could stay fresh for their Champions League final against A.C. Milan. Bernès was involved in the phone call to arrange the bribe. In July 1993, Bernès left his role at Marseille, due to the scandal. At the trial, Bernès was given a two year suspended sentence and a fine. In 1994, Bernès was banned for life by the French Football Federation, although the ban was overturned by FIFA in 1996.