For those with aspirations to find employment in the sports sector, the commercial side offers numerous jobs, advises Kevin Quinn, the Commercial and Marketing Chief for Leinster Rugby. Quinn talks about the exhilaration and satisfaction that comes from working close with a team resonating with its passion and drive, especially during flourishing times.
Being part of the sporting world, as per Quinn, might be quite demanding, though the rewards are well worth it. Responsibilities like match preparation and finalising sponsorships may entail a substantial amount of work but the whole experience is full of excitement.
Kevin underscores the importance of a passion for sports as a critical factor for a career in this field. He believes those associated with Leinster Rugby are all heavily invested in the team and that a common interest in sports can facilitate fostering industry connections.
For any student looking to join the sports sector, he suggests checking club websites to understand the role options on offer. Conducting personal research and browsing the website can provide a detailed picture, whether it’s about marketing, financial aspects, or sponsorship opportunities.
Following one’s passion while keeping abreast of industry transformations, is his recommendation to budding professionals. Quinn’s own journey into the commercial side of sports was not a conventional one. He initially obtained an electronic engineering degree before becoming a visual engineer in television broadcasting at Setanta Sport.
His career began with live broadcasting of GAA matches and eventually transitioned into the commercial side. Even without the right qualifications, he emphasises the chance to acquire new skills by working along with competent individuals. Concluding his words, Quinn says, adding trust in the mix with working with esteemed professionals can bring forth substantial learning opportunities. The interview occurred in 2022.