🤝Sports Industry Career Advice

Inspiring stories and career insights from today's leaders across the sports industry.

Each month, our newsletter delivers a comprehensive recap of insights and advice from top sports executives and leaders on navigating your career path in the sports industry. Over the month of December, we featured Jimmy Spencer, SVP of Talent Partnerships at The SpringHill Company; Brandon Harris, President & Chief Content Officer at Playmaker HQ (Better Collective); Harrison Laifer, Corporate Vice President of Sponsorship Strategy at New York Life; and Nick Olindo, Director of Strategy & Special Projects at Chicago Fire FC.

  • Jimmy became the first employee of UNINTERRUPTED, the athlete-focused media platform by LeBron James and Maverick Carter.

  • “Being kind, honest, and direct are pillars of strong emotional intelligence,” he explains. This approach builds trust and respect, cornerstones of long-term success.

  • Jimmy’s advice to young professionals is simple yet profound: “Give yourself grace.” The road to success in the sports industry is rarely linear. “You’ll experience peaks and valleys,” he says.

Jimmy’s full story is available only on The Scouting Report—click here to learn more and access all of his career insights.

  • Brandon founded Playmaker in 2018, growing it into a sports media brand with over 20 million social media followers, more than 30 original shows, and content partnerships with athletes like Shaq.

  • "Opportunities can come and go quickly. If competitors find them first, it’s infinitely harder. When I see an opening, I go all in."

  • Brandon stresses the importance of action and iteration for those figuring out their own paths. "Your first idea won’t be where you land. Don’t chase perfection early—it’s your enemy," he advises.

Brandon’s full story is available only on The Scouting Report—click here to learn more and access all of his career insights.

  • Reflecting on his journey at renowned brands like BSE, NBA, Morgan Stanley, and New York Life, Harrison highlights the importance of balancing intellectual intelligence (IQ) with emotional intelligence (EQ).

  • “I’m looking for someone who’s a sponge – someone who absorbs everything, works hard, and is willing to embrace a growth mindset,” he shares.

  • “Your career isn’t a straight path; it’s okay to take sideways steps or even step back,” he says. He encourages professionals to focus less on job titles or optics and more on the skills and experiences that a role offers.

Harrison’s full story is available only on The Scouting Report—click here to learn more and access all of his career insights.

  • Nick is helping to revitalize Chicago Fire FC’s business operations. The team has seen tremendous growth in the past two seasons, doubling its season ticket member base, tripling the number of corporate partners, and setting the record for the highest-grossing match in MLS history.

  • Nick believes success is built on three pillars: work ethic, self-awareness, and positivity. “Anyone I’ve been around who’s really successful… they’re getting 1% better each day.”

  • Viewing setbacks as part of a compelling career story has helped him navigate ups and downs with resilience. “Think about any movie – there’s always some kind of conflict or struggle. That’s what makes the story compelling; otherwise, it would be boring.”

Nick’s full story is available only on The Scouting Report—click here to learn more and access all of his career insights.

Get access and hear directly from sports leaders like these through The Playbook—a platform offering coaching sessions, workshops, and fireside chats to help you navigate your career in sports. Sign up now to learn how you can stand out in sports with insights from top industry professionals.

Give the Gift of Sport With Nike

The holidays are here—a time to connect, celebrate, and share the joy of giving. Nike makes it easy to find gifts that inspire greatness and movement.

From timeless sneakers to cozy fleece hoodies, Nike’s gift guide has something for everyone. Whether you’re shopping for the sports enthusiast, the weekend adventurer, or the casual style icon, these gifts are designed to elevate their routine.

Take the stress out of shopping with Nike’s curated collections and effortless online experience. Celebrate the season with gifts that bring joy to their every step.