Riley talks about studying both undergraduate and postgraduate Sport Business Management at Leeds Beckett, what he most enjoyed and how it helped to prepare him for his career. He's currently working as an Area Sales Manager at Capelli Sport.

Courses: BA (Hons) Sport Business Management and MSc Sport Business Management

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you've been doing since you graduated?

Since graduating, I've been working in the teamwear industry, providing football kits to teams across the entire UK football pyramid. I've gained experience at two different companies, and I'm currently serving as the Area Sales Manager for the North of England at Capelli Sport. Outside of work, I still play semi-professional football and enjoy the gym and running.

What were the highlights of your course?

My favourite module on the MSc Sport Business Management course was Sport Economics, as I found the entire landscape of the subject fascinating. My undergraduate dissertation was also strongly influenced by sport economic principles. I really enjoyed Global Sport Policy & Governance, which provided a fantastic opportunity to debate real-world issues and challenges in the sports industry.

A key highlight of my course was the experience I gained during my placement at Huddersfield Town FC through the Professional Practice in the Sport Industry (PPSI) module. This placement gave me invaluable exposure to the commercial side of sport and directly influenced my career after graduation.

Tell us about your job and why you chose to study a PG course at Leeds Beckett.

In my role, I'm responsible for servicing current clients to a high standard, managing their purchases through the entire process. Additionally, I have to think commercially for the broader business, addressing challenges related to shipping and production costs while implementing strategies to drive overall revenue.

I decided to pursue a postgraduate degree because I believed it'd provide me with more experience and enhance my chances of securing a job in the sports industry immediately after university.

Due to COVID-19, I faced difficulties in gaining placement experience during my second year; but knowing that the master's programme included the PPSI module, it was the perfect opportunity to dedicate time to securing a placement within sport.

How has your experience studying at Leeds Beckett influenced you and your career?

During my time at Leeds Beckett, I gained insight into real-world sporting challenges from commercial, ethical, and marketing perspectives. Throughout my university education, I found that commercially focused modules were the ones that piqued my interest the most. This, along with the wide range of career opportunities within commercial sport, significantly shaped my career choices.

What attracted you to study your course at Leeds Beckett University?

When choosing my undergraduate degree, I visited several universities in the North of England that offered Sport Business programmes. Ultimately, the key factors that influenced my decision were the approachable nature of the university lecturers and the overall welcoming atmosphere. Everyone I met seemed genuinely passionate about the courses they taught.

Additionally, during my open day, the weather was perfect - there wasn't a cloud in the sky. The combination of the James Graham Building and the grassy acre in front of it really sold me. Students were sunbathing and playing sports across the campus, and that unique atmosphere made it clear to me that no other university I visited had the same feeling.

Did you enjoy studying your course? What advice would you give someone thinking about studying the same one?

If you're passionate about sport, whether it's playing or watching, a Sport Business degree at Leeds Beckett is a fantastic way to turn that passion into a career. When I first started at Leeds Beckett, I wasn't sure what I wanted to do, but the experience I gained during my time at university helped me discover a career I truly enjoy and a future I'm excited about.

What's next for you?

Next, I plan to further develop my professional skills at Capelli Sport. I hope to stay with the company for several years as it continues to expand within the UK.