From Passion to Profession: Katie Fuller Student Profile

While studying MSc International Sport Management with us at GIS, Katie Fuller co-Founded and is co-Chair of SPARK, GIS’ Women in Sport society, geared towards building connections with like-minded individuals who share a passion for the sports industry.

Launching last month, the society event hosted Carrie Dunn, Sports Journalist and Women’s Sport Adviser and Sharona Friedman, President & CEO of the Global Institute of Sport at a launch event, who shared their knowledge and expertise with the attendees.

Before even going to university, Katie proactively began building her experience in sport by working part-time with NFL UK to organise and coordinate their Flag in Schools programme for children all over Nottinghamshire, as well as working with the Jacksonville Jaguars during their community outreach days in London.

In 2021, Katie then graduated from the University of Nottingham after studying American Studies and English. This led to her acquiring various international work experience in both the United States and Thailand, notably working as a Graduate Leader for Harrow International School Bangkok, supporting students across subjects such as English and History, as well as organising and coordinating sports activities for students.

Upon her return to England, Katie delved deeper into the world of sport through an internship with Women in Motorsport and, now as a Commercial Assistant with the Hull Seahawks ice hockey team. Developing skills from video editing to digital marketing, Katie most recently decided to amplify her CV by joining our International Sport Management postgraduate degree, and told us, “when I was in school, I loved sport, but thought it was more of a passion than a career.”

Turning this passion into a career, the course offers modules from Global Sustainable Sports Operations to Global Sports Marketing and Digital Communications, providing a well-rounded insight into a career in the sports industry, the ninth largest in the world with industry revenues at $2.65 trillion, according to Global Sports Insights.

As for women’s sport, the figures are even more impressive, with revenues increasing by 240% over the last four years according to Deloitte.

Describing how her postgraduate studies have helped her learn and improve, Katie said, “Firstly, through learning and taking in all the knowledge they teach you. 

“Secondly, through the amazing network they have, and the opportunities they provide students to get in touch with that network, meet other students and people from the industry.”

Whilst at GIS, Katie was awarded the Women in Sport scholarship, dedicated to empowering exceptional female candidates who aspire to become leaders in the sports industry. 

As part of this, Katie receives mentorship from Liz Martin, Senior Director of Corporate Sponsorships at the New York Red Bulls, and the opportunity to build her network through attending a GIS Global Summit for free!

Just like fellow GIS student and SPARK co-founder Kim Harrison, Katie headed to Miami, where she delivered a presentation to Inter Miami staff members on the challenges and opportunities the club faces with its move to the new Freedom Park Stadium in Miami. “I was able to focus on the importance of maintaining their fan base in Fort Lauderdale, learning all about fan engagement and retention,” Katie added.

She was also able to interview Jamona Hayling about her time as Director of F1 Event Operations at the Miami Grand Prix, discussing event sustainability and the American F1 fanbase, which related to her master’s dissertation that investigates female fan engagement in F1!

Earlier this month, Katie started a new role as an Events and Sales intern at GIS this month, where we look forward to working with her!

With a growing portfolio of relevant industry experience, Katie is well on her way to building her dream career in sport. “GIS can help me get to my perfect role in a number of ways,” she says, and if you’d like to learn more, contact us!

Article by Zakaria Anani