Five Quick Questions - Rob Gevertz
Five quick fire questions on working in the sports industry with Rob Gevertz, Founder at First Five Yards.
1 - Who is your sports business inspiration?
Vinai Venkatesham (CEO at Arsenal). I may be a little biased but I love the direction that the whole organisation is moving in. He took over during a difficult period and has implemented a strategy and identity across the entire club that focusses on young dynamic people driving forward the business in key areas.
2 - Name an organisation in sport we should be following and why?
Overtime. They are a media company that have set up a basketball league for young, up and coming players with the aim of creating a content platform. The highlights and shoulder content are driving the commercial side of the business. You need the games to create authenticity but they are not the be all and end all. This is a great test case for creating a sports entity aimed at a young, digital audience.
3 - What is your top recommendation for great sports industry content?
The Unofficial Partner podcast series offers a great breadth of subject matter with high level guests from around the world whilst still retaining some humour and brevity.
4 - What is the biggest thing you have learned from your career in sports so far?
Not to be dazzled by the bright lights of the perceived bigger clubs/sports/agencies. Some of the best organisations to work for / with are newer sports or smaller organisations with a real sense of purpose and identity.
5 - Finally, your one non-negotiable for anyone looking to get into a career in sports?
Keep learning. The sports industry struggles to break out from doing things the way they always have, so if you can offer something new and different you will really stand out.
If you interested in reading more from Rob, his full interview can be found here.