Ever wanted a career tip from someone who has already made it in their chosen profession? Maybe you have wanted to know what qualification might put you on the road to success?
Here at 'Two Minutes with...' we regularly invite some of Australia's and New Zealand's leading professionals working in the sport, fitness, aquatic, coaching, venues, events, leisure and lifestyle sector to respond to a number of questions covering career, inspirations, qualifications and passions. Our questions are broken into three groups from which they are invited to respond to a total of ten.
You'll see from the responses that all of these people have a keen sense of purpose and dedication to their jobs, mixed with a good sense of humour when responding to some of the more 'light-hearted' questions asked.
If you know someone who you think would be of interest to readers here at 'Two Minutes with...' please email
news@sportspeople.com.au
We hope you enjoy learning just a little bit about these inspirational leaders.
- Deidre Anderson - whilst CEO, U@MQ
- Des Brennan - whilst CEO, Yachting New Zealand
- Ric Charlesworth - whilst High Performance Manager, New Zealand Cricket
- Frances Crampton - whilst CEO - Women's Golf NSW
- Trevor Gleeson - Head Coach, Townsville Crocodiles
- Todd Greenberg- CEO, Canterbury Bulldogs RLFC
- Karen Grega - CEO, Sydney Olympic Park Business Association
- Wayne Goldsmith - Managing Director, Moregold Performance Consulting
- Brian Harris - whilst Human Resources Manager, Cricket Australia
- Deborah Jones - whilst Human Resources Manager, Rugby New Zealand 2011 Limited
- Sue Noble - whilst CEO, Softball Australia
- Kate Roffey - whilst CEO, VicSport
- Jim Pappas - whilst General Manager, Mingara One - The Lifestyle Centre
- Hilary Poole - CEO, Hockey New Zealand
- Michael Scott - whilst CEO, 2007 World Swimming Championships Corporation
- Lauretta Stace - CEO, Fitness Australia
- Ian Swan - CEO, Aquatics and Recreation Victoria
- Glenn Tasker - whilst CEO, Swimming Australia
- Onno Van Es Manager - Recreation Services, Mackay Regional Council, Queensland
- Steve Walker - whilst CEO, Tennis New Zealand
- Mitchell Woods - Health and Fitness Coordinator, North Sydney Olympic Pool
Two Minutes with Deidre Anderson
This interview was completed when Deidre was the Chief Executive Officer of U@MQ, Macquarie University’s student services organisation.
The best thing about my job is the variety and the impact on peoples lives.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be understand the importance of customer service.
The person who has had the most influence on my career is Dr Frank Pyke (former VIS Director).
If I wasn't in my current job I would like to be a Training Consultant.
My first job was a journalist.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was you have been given two ears and one mouth for a reason.
I consider the greatest challenge facing my profession is lack of leadership and customer service.
If I had to advertise myself the four key words I would use are Passionate, Driven, Self motivated, Leader.
In 10 years time I see myself writing books.
My most significant achievement has been working with some of the best athletes in the world.
When I was a child I wanted to be a Vet.
Five people living or dead I would invite to dinner are Nelson Mandela, God, my nana, George Bush, Osama Bin Laden.
The most embarrassing moment of my career was writing on my face with a texta in front of a class when I thought the lid was on.
If there were more hours in the day I would surf more.
My favourite sporting team is Hawthorn.
Two Minutes with Des Brennan
This interview was completed when Des was the Chief Executive Officer of Yachting New Zealand.
The best thing about my job is I am making a contribution to one of New Zealand’s most successful sports, from the base to the pinnacle.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be learn about business and corporate life before coming into sport.
My highest qualification is MBA with distinction. However I started out with a BSc in Chemistry and always value the objectivity of science.
My most significant achievement has been assisting in New Zealand’s successful America’s Cup challenge in 1995.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was to have clarity of purpose.
Other people would describe me as strategic, objective, wise and pragmatic.
In 10 years time I see myself growing older more gracefully.
I live and manage my life by the motto be fair, be frank, be true.
When I was a child I wanted to be a scientist.
After work I like to be with my partner and to spend time with my four adult children.
Five people living or dead I would invite to dinner are Leonardo da Vinci, William Shakespeare, Sir Ernest Rutherford, John Kennedy, Cate Blanchett.
My favourite sporting team is the Sopranos!
Two Minutes with Ric Charlesworth
This interview was completed when Ric was the High Performance Manager for New Zealand Cricket.
The best thing about my job is I work in sport with some motivated people and feel that I'm making a difference.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be make sure that its what you want to do before you commit...this applies to any job!
My highest qualification is a medical degree, the knowledge from which I still use indirectly almost everyday.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was try to make a difference to others.
Other people would describe me as driven, purposeful, tenacious.
In 10 years time I see myself semi retired but busy doing only the things that excite me...maybe writing.
I live and manage my life by the motto always take up new challenges which come along.
When I was a child I wanted to be very good at the things I wanted to do.
After work I like to be with my family.
Five people living or dead I would invite to dinner are Arundati Roy, Nelson Mandella, Alex Ferguson, Richard Dawkins, Bill Gates and Jack Welsh.
My favourite sporting team is the Hockeyroos!
Two Minutes with Frances Crampton AM
This interview was conducted when Frances was Chief Executive Officer of Women's Golf NSW and President of the NSW Sports Federation.
The best thing about my job is the people I work with (staff and volunteers).
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be make sure you have outstanding computer skills.
My first job was working in my mother’s shop weighing the potatoes (a self service/delicatessen).
Other people would describe me as a workaholic.
I consider the greatest challenge facing my profession is lack of appreciation of the value of sport to the health of the community.
If I had to advertise myself the four key words I would use are honest, reliable, hard working.
My most significant achievement has been assisting in the establishment of the NSW Sports Federation.
When I was a child I wanted to be a Lawyer.
After work I like to sleep.
If there were more hours in the day I would find some personal time to keep fit.
Two Minutes with Trevor Gleeson
This interview was conducted when Trevor was the Head Coach of the Townsville Crocodiles NBL Team.
The best thing about my job is working daily with professional athletes who want to be the best and who are prepared to pay the price. Also the enjoyment of seeing our team develop, grow and play above its potential.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be know the ups and downs of your profession. Once you have decided that it is still you, be prepared to start at the bottom and work your way up. Don’t let anyone out work you. The cream always rises to the top!
If I wasn't in my current job I would like to be an adventure tour guide in some other country.
I am driven and motivated by bringing the first NBL Championship to Townsville Crocodiles.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was "people don’t follow you because they like you; they follow you because they like who they are when you are leading."
I live and manage my life by the motto if you want something in life, get off your behind and go get it. No-one else will do it for you.
Five people living or dead I would invite to dinner are Charles Barkley, Elvis Presley, Steve Irwin, Nostradamus, Wilbur Smith.
The most embarrassing moment of my career was when I was coaching a game of basketball when I squatted down on the sidelines. In the process I split my pants from behind. I tried to hide it, but soon there was a buzz going around the stadium. It didn’t help the matter that I was wearing red underwear! Now I always wear the same color underwear as my pants just in case!
If there were more hours in the day I would love to spend more time reading and to starting writing my own book.
Two Minutes with Todd Greenberg
Todd is the Chief Executive Officer of the Bulldogs RLFC.
The best thing about my job is the opportunity to work with an iconic & professional sporting brand.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek opportunities.
The person who has had the most influence on my career is the late Bob Radford, a former CEO of Cricket NSW who provided me with a tremendous background in sports administration and management.
My highest qualification is Master of Management (Sports Management).
If I wasn't in my current job I would like to be a Criminal Defence Attorney.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was "the art of good communication is listening!"
I live and manage my life by the motto "the harder you work the luckier you get".
When I was a child I wanted to be working in sport.
Five people living or dead I would invite to dinner are Sir Donald Bradman, Nelson Mandella, Sarah Murdoch, Elvis Presley & my wife.
My favourite sporting team is the Bulldogs!
Two Minutes with Karen Grega
Karen is the Chief Executive Officer at the Sydney Olympic Park Business Association.
The best thing about my job is the diversity of businesses I work with, the diversity of the role which encompasses many aspects of sales, marketing and administration and the dynamic nature of Sydney Olympic Park as a precinct in which to operate.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be not to lie - lies come back to bite you down the track. Be honest and treat people firmly but fairly as a manager. It's not rocket science! Treating people with respect earns you respect back.
My highest qualification is Bachelor of Business Communications.
I am driven and motivated by challenges, making a difference and the ability to provide creative solutions.
My first job was a Client Services Officer for Australian Soccer Pools.
If I had to advertise myself the four key words I would use are Honest, loyal, self-motivated, creative.
My most significant achievement has been Event Managing the Scottish Cup Final ( soccer) at Hampden Park in Scotland between traditional rivals Celtic and Rangers after working in the country only two months.
Five people living or dead I would invite to dinner are John F Kennedy, Oprah Winfrey, Michael Parkinson, Martina Navratilova and of course, my partner.
If there were more hours in the day I would spend more time volunteering at the local vet - great therapy!
If I was an animal I would be a Burmese Cat.
My favourite sporting team is Sydney FC.
Two Minutes with Wayne Goldsmith
Wayne is the Managing Director of Moregold Performance Consulting.
The best thing about my job is there are no limits, no barriers, no "written in stone" rules about high performance sport. Everyday is a new challenge where the only real limits are the ones you set yourself.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be don't listen to anyone who uses definitives, e.g. phrases like "The only way to....." or "In sport you must......" or "You must always do........" etc. This business moves so fast - success is a moving target - that your goal needs to be to accelerate your rate of learning and improvement faster than anyone who has gone before you. Also the fundamental difference between high performance sport and community sport or recreation sport is the rate of change. You need to be someone who embraces change and pursues it relentlessly with passion. It took me ten years to really understand this but it is critical. Challenge everyone and everything.
The person who has had the most influence on my career is me. Any successes or failures I have experienced have been due to my own strengths and weaknesses. In terms of other people I respect and admire and have learnt from, Bill Sweetenham (leadership, "no compromises"), Don Talbot (leadership and backing your abilities), Eddie Jones (preparation, attention to detail, work ethic), Bill Davoren (leadership, commitment, sacrifice), Dr David Pyne (attention to detail, perserverence, loyalty, work ethic, quality), David Parkin (learning - no matter how old you are, humility, humanity), Craig Tiley (vision, strategy, integrity). I have an even longer list of people who I don't respect or admire but who I learnt a lot from - as in what NOT to do.
I am driven and motivated by people who get excited about change and innovation. I will work for nothing with people who are passionate about driving change and rejecting truths.
My first job was packing car radiators into cardboard boxes so they could be shipped. My first job in sport was picking up weights in a gym and of course - the obligatory term as a Doping Test Chapparone for ASDA (ASADA). In those days they paid 20 bucks per gig. When you are student, you got to do whatever you can to earn money!.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was find out what you love to do, become the best in the world at it and the money will flow. Never focus on money or success - focus on your passion and back it with a work ethic and commitment to be the best at doing it. (the late and great Terry Gathercole).
Other people would describe me as switched on, but good in small doses. I tend to get very enthusiastic and excited about everything I do and it can be a bit much for some people to take for more than a few days at a time. That's why I am a consultant! I can't do anything else!.
I consider the greatest challenge facing my profession is resistance to change. Particularly in Australia I am seeing a very worrying trend of "we know how to do it here" - and too many people have forgotten the level of hard work, innovation, commitment, inspiration and determination it took to take the system from where it was in the 80s to where it is now. I have a great fear that we are facing a long term in the sporting wilderness if we don't all dig in together and take things up a few notches. We can do it - but it is going to take a change in attitude by all of us. London will be the toughest Olympics ever - it is a home Olympics for western Europe, we have to face the USA in a northern hemisphere games, China and India on the rise, the Poms will be tougher than ever....and we have to pay for training and preparation opportunities in Euros or Pounds. So because the task ahead is so much tougher....we have to be so much tougher and smarter and more innovative and work harder than ever before.
When I was a child I wanted to be a rugby league player then a stand up comic. Maybe I could do stand up with my head in scrum and combine the two?
The most embarrassing moment of my career was allowing two elite athletes to leave their bikes in a hotel room causing them to stuff up a world championship.
If I was an animal I would be a snake. I like the idea of being able to shed your skin and being re-invented every so often. Plus there is a long list of people I would like to bite on the backside.
My favourite sporting team is Bulldogs NRL. It's a genetic problem. I was born in Canterbury Hospital, grew up in Bankstown, went to Punchbowl Boys High and my dad lived in Belmore most of his life.
Two Minutes with Brian Harris
This interview was completed when Brian was the Human Resources Manager at Cricket Australia.
The best thing about my job is enjoying your work, whilst being involved in an International Sport and seeing young people join the team and thriving in their careers.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be be professional in everything you do and build relationships.
My highest qualification is a Bachelor’s Degree in HR from Deakin University.
My first job was delivering newspapers at 5 in the morning.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was attention to detail, get it right the first time.
Other people would describe me as consistent, stable, and practical.
I consider the greatest challenge facing my profession is balance the changing nature of work, and being both operational and strategic with HR’s value-add to the business.
In 10 years time I see myself continuing to drive and develop the HR function in sport.
When I was a child I wanted to be a racing car driver, didn’t everyone!
After work I like to play sport, watch sport or take the kids to sport!
Five people living or dead I would invite to dinner are Don Bradman, Roger Federer, Mark Webber, Adam Gilchrist, Steffi Graf.
If I was an animal I would be a tiger.
Two Minutes with Deborah Jones
This interview was completed when Deborah was the Human Resources Manager at Rugby New Zealand 2011 Limited.
The best thing about my job is the opportunity to be involved in building a team of motivated people who will plan and deliver the Rugby World Cup Tournament in 2011.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be to gain a detailed understanding of the HR basics so you can then build on a solid foundation.
My highest qualification is B.A. in Management and Languages.
I am driven and motivated by the desire to meet my own standards.
My first job was a Japanese interpreter/translator for Honda New Zealand, I now know a lot more about cars!
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was never blame anyone else for decisions you make.
I live and manage my life by the motto "have no regrets".
When I was a child I wanted to be an air traffic controller.
After work I like to spend time with my family.
If there were more hours in the day I would end up trying to fit more into my day so quite pleased there are not!
Two Minutes with Sue Noble
This interview was completed when Sue was the Chief Executive Officer of Softball Australia.
The best thing about my job is working in sport in a membership association with people who are passionate and want to bring about change to grow the sport.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be look for opportunities to broaden and deepen your range of experiences, skills and expertise through education/training, working in other industries, taking on additional roles/projects/tasks in your current position, going that extra mile (9 to 5 doesn’t cut it) and (if you work in a membership organisation) become a member and volunteer in a membership organisation in order to get a better appreciation of your members’ perspective.
My highest qualification is an MBA – I have tended to use further education to support/complement on the job training and experience.
If I wasn't in my current job I would like to be travelling to remote and amazing places; trekking in the Himalaya; 4-wheel driving in Mongolia; sailing around the Galapagos (that’s next November).
I am driven and motivated by having a variety of interesting and challenging work and an opportunity to learn; working with committed, passionate people; needing to pay that next adventure.
My first (real) job was a public librarian – at Cranbourne Library – a long time ago…
I consider the greatest challenge facing my profession is equity in resourcing, support and exposure, especially for smaller sports, many of which run on the smell of an oily rag from “the kitchen table” yet still manage to achieve international success… there are people doing amazing things out there.
If I could have a 'theme song' to describe my life it would be can’t do just one! Like a Rolling Stone, Moondance, Born to Run, Tower of Song, Desperados Waiting for a Train … there is a theme in there somewhere…
After work I like to go to the gym – well not really but it sounds better than blobbing on the couch.
Five people living or dead I would invite to dinner are Leonard Cohen, Machiavelli, Eleanor of Aquitaine (as played by Katherine Hepburn), Dervla Murphy, Mr Darcy (as played by Colin Firth).
Two Minutes with Kate Roffey
This interview was completed when Kate was the Chief Executive Officer of VicSport.
The best thing about my job is the opportunity it provides to really influence Victoria's sport and active recreation agenda. Invites to Victoria's many outstanding sporting events doesn't hurt either.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be try and create at least a rough long-term goal. The sport sector is very broad and there are many ways you can direct your career path, but there are some areas that really do require a specific skill set. If for example you want to be a CEO or head up a sport organisation it is important to get your business management skills up to speed, particularly in the finance and strategic planning areas. If you want to be a sports scientist then there are some academic goals you will need to pursue. The best way to get an idea is to talk to the people working in the sector.
The person who has had the most influence on my career is Cynthia Melbourne - a good friend and my first mentor who when I was in year 10 encouraged me to go to University and also made me believe you never aim for second best.
If I wasn't in my current job I would like to be leading adventure treks in remote areas around the world.
I am driven and motivated by a real desire to make a difference. I believe there is so much more we could be doing in sport - if we would just take the time to think strategically and work together.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was from Bryce Courtenay - "Someone has to be it, it might as well be you".
I consider the greatest challenge facing my profession is the resistance to break the traditional stronghold. In many areas of sport we are afraid to challenge tradition - but yesterday's ideas deliver yesterday's results. The world we live in has changed and the way people consume is changing too. If you continue to resist the need to bend - eventually you will break.
If I could have a 'theme song' to describe my life it would be "Don't stop me now" by Queen.
The most embarrassing moment of my career was having returned from 4 years overseas I took up a position as Business Unit Leader of Corporate Health for the Federal Parliament. I was walking to the gym early one morning when an older gentleman came up to me and said "Hi, I'm Peter, you must be the new manager". I replied, "That's right, my name is Kate". To be polite I turned to Peter and asked "So what do you do here Peter". He gave me a bemused look and said "I'm the Treasurer". I was in two minds as to whether this should go in my most embarrassing moment or greatest achievement.
My most unusual skill is driving dog sleds. Whilst visiting the far North of Sweden in 1995 I landed a job taking Italian tourists on dog-sled tours and ice-fishing safaris.
Two Minutes with Jim Pappas
This interview was completed when Jim was the General Manager of Mingara One – The Lifestyle Centre.
The best thing about my job is Autonomy, and the challenge ahead of me (building and populating another Mega Fitness / Aquatic / Wellness Complex).
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be to be passionate about your work.
My highest qualification is Master of Education (M.Ed.).
I am driven and motivated by challenge.
My first job (in Australia) was State Director of Coaching – (Basketball) Tasmania.
Other people would describe me as passionate and hyper.
I consider the greatest challenge facing my profession is creating a culture driven by, service and, variety and not by money. Profit will follow, it doesn’t have to lead.
My most significant achievement has been opportunities to lead great teams of people, in sport and workforces.
When I was a child I wanted to be an athlete.
My most unusual skill is my pace and motivational ability.
If I were an animal I would be a border collie.
Two Minutes with Hilary Poole
Hilary is the Chief Executive Officer at Hockey New Zealand.
The best thing about my job is working with people who are passionate about sport, and give over and above because of this love.
My tip for someone setting out on a career in sport is learn to leave work at work, its never done!
My first job was pumping petrol.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was trust creates lift, build trust.
I consider the greatest challenge facing my profession is capability – both in money and people.
I live and manage my life by the motto look forward, don’t look back.
My most significant achievement has been creating a family.
Two Minutes with Michael Scott
This interview was completed when Michael was the Chief Executive Officer of the 2007 World Swimming Championships Corporation.
The best thing about my job is the variety of issues and stakeholders involved in organizing such a significant event as the 12th FINA World Championships has provided me with the opportunity to expand my skill set into areas where I previously had not had the opportunity. This experience will position better for my next job opportunity.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be enjoy the people and embrace the passion that they have for their sport and the industry.
The people who have had the most influence on my career is my parents - they taught me a great work ethic and associated values that are fundamental in life.
My highest qualification is Master Degree in Sports Administration.
My first job was Head Coach - Women’s Swimming Team Miami University of Ohio.
In 10 years time I see myself still involved in the sports industry.
I live and manage my life by the motto every day wasted making a decision is a day lost implementing.
After work I like to relax with a good bottle of red wine.
Five people living or dead I would invite to dinner are John F Kennedy, Michael Phelps, Winston Churchill, Dali Lama and Mick Malthouse.
My favourite sporting team is there is only one - Collingwood.
Two Minutes with Lauretta Stace
Lauretta is the Chief Executive Officer at Fitness Australia.
The best thing about my job is the variety of challenges involved and the opportunity to work within a growing industry that has an enormously positive impact on people’s lives.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be establish a professional and reliable team to support you and a culture of sharing with and learning from each other.
I am driven and motivated by challenge, change and achieving great results.
My first job was as a Research Assistant in the School of Microbiology at UNSW, researching the epidemiology of arboviruses.
Other people would describe me as calm, diplomatic and determined.
The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given was great leaders have three main qualities – vision, courage, and humility.
I live and manage my life by trying to address everything I do with vision, courage and humility.
After work I like to exercise, cook, eat dinner and watch movies.
Five people living or dead I would invite to dinner are Beethoven, Queen Elizabeth I, Gandhi, Jim Morrison, Shakespeare.
If I was an animal I would be an eagle or an owl.
Two Minutes with Ian Swan
Ian is the Chief Executive Officer at Aquatics and Recreation Victoria.
The best thing about my job is working with a Board that shares the vision for moving the Organization forward.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be ensure that you gain a range of employment experiences that will both give you a rounded view and a broader skill set that will enhance your ongoing employability.
My highest qualification is Master of Business.
If I wasn't in my current job I would like to be catching a wave on a white sandy beach.
I am driven and motivated by seeing my work being a help to others.
My first job was a physical education teacher.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was in making a presentation/submission: ‘make sure you answer all of the questions before you get asked’.
If I could have a 'theme song' to describe my life it would be “The long way home” by Super Tramp.
After work I like to relax and/or exercise.
Five people living or dead I would invite to dinner are Nelson Mandela, Anthony Hopkins, Bill Clinton, Gough Whitlam, Penny Wong.
Two Minutes with Glenn Tasker
This interview was completed when Glenn was the Chief Executive Officer of Swimming Australia.
The best thing about my job is working with a variety of people all dedicated to making Australia the world’s number one swimming nation.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be don’t be afraid to start at the bottom; the broader your experiences the more valuable you will become to an organisation.
The person who has had the most influence on my career is my wife, Henny!
My highest qualification is a Master of Education degree from the University of Sydney.
If I wasn't in my current job I would like to be running a rugby organisation.
My first job was a primary school teacher.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was don’t be afraid to make a decision.
I consider the greatest challenge facing my profession is finding the resources to keep sport viable at all levels.
My most significant achievement has been managing to work in Canberra whilst my family lives in Sydney.
When I was a child I wanted to be a P.E. Teacher.
If I could have a 'theme song' to describe my life it would be "When the Saints Go Marchin’ In".
My most unusual skill is remembering sporting trivia.
If there were more hours in the day I would probably spend more time at the office.
My favourite sporting team is the St George-Illawarra Dragons (Rugby League).
Two Minutes with Onno Van Es
This interview was completed when Onno was the Manager of Recreation Services at Mackay Regional Council, Queensland.
The best thing about my job is to play a major part in the regional development of sports, recreation and lifestyle in one of the fastest-growing regions in Australia in a my industry of choice.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be to gain as much work or volunteer experience as possible within the sports & recreation profession and don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s all about your enthusiasm for lifelong learning that will set you apart. All experiences gained within the sports & recreation industry will benefit you and will ultimately assist you in gaining more knowledge and a broader view. These various experiences within our industry will also provide you with some lessons learned for yourself, in terms of determining which areas within the sports & recreation industry you enjoy and suit you as a person, and perhaps the areas you don’t particularly enjoy or suit your style. Many people within our industry often start working within the industry as they have a real interest in physical activity, healthy lifestyle and working with people. This often leads into other fields within the sports & recreation industry. There are many specialised fields within the sports & recreation industry including coaching, sports administration, project management, leisure tourism, events, health / fitness / wellbeing, venue management and advisory / development roles within local, state and federal governments. Gain as much experience as you can, learn as much as possible and the world is your oyster!.
My highest qualification is Graduate Diploma in Management (Completed a Bachelor in Sports/Recreation – The Netherlands) and currently studying towards a Master of Project Management.
I am driven and motivated by continuous improvement / development.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was to gain as many experiences a possible, as a rich life experience will benefit you greatly in your communication with people, work and personal life.
Other people would describe me as passionate, driven, calm and hard working.
My most significant achievement has been the successful completion of Mackay’s $12.7 million Bluewater Lagoon aquatic facility (in the capacity of project manager from concept to commissioning).
When I was a child I wanted to be a millionaire! (I must have thought it was a profession).
If there were more hours in the day I would make sure I use all of them!
If I was an animal I would be a dolphin: having fun and cruising the oceans.
Two Minutes with Steve Walker
This interview was completed when Steve was the Chief Executive Officer of Tennis New Zealand.
The best thing about my job is the variety, the challenges and the fun of having a leadership role in the tennis / sports industry.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be find a job in the area you love and be very good at it.
The person who has had the most influence on my career is my dad.
My highest qualification is Bachelor of Commerce.
If I wasn't in my current job I would like to be in my previous one - CEO Baseball Victoria.
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was do something you love and be the best at it.
My most significant achievement is I have three children aged 3, 6 and 9 who I'm pretty convinced love me a lot.
When I was a child I wanted to be a pro tennis player and an AFL football player.
After work I like to not answer the phone and play with my children.
My favourite sporting team is The New Zealand Davis and Fed Cup teams, and the Kangaroos - AFL.
Two Minutes with Mitchell Woods
Mitchell is the Health and Fitness Coordinator at North Sydney Olympic Pool.
The best thing about my job is I have the privilege of managing and working with a group of exercise professionals, enabling them to create a positive change in the clients lives.
I consider the greatest challenge facing my profession is that a lot of people want to be involved within the health and fitness/sporting industry. You've got to be in the top percentages.
If I had a tip for someone setting out on a career in my profession it would be To gain as much experience in as many different situations and settings as you can. The more experience you have the more likely you will be able to deliver to your employer, staff, client base and most importantly, yourself! Furthermore, put your hand up to do all the unwanted jobs, your efforts will not go unnoticed.
The person who has had the most influence on my career is many great mentors have contributed to my overall development: Mick Miller (Myndsperformance), Bryce Cavanagh (Munster Rugby Union), James Walsh (Eastern Suburbs Rugby Union), Mark Watsford (University or Technology, Sydney) and Paul Chapman (Cricket NSW).
The best piece of advice I've ever been given was to keep your eye on the prize. 'It's about the process, not the outcome.'
My First Job was as a garden maintenance assistant, 14 years old.
My Highest Qualification is Bachelor of Human Movement (Hons)(UTS).
If I wasn't in my current job I would like to be involved in a professional elite team sporting environment.
If I had to advertise myself the four key words I would use are Hard Working, Reliable, Honest, Delivers the goods.
In 10 years time I see myself running a professional sporting team.
My most significant achievement has been receiving a high distinction mark in my honours thesis, 'Factors affecting jump performance in elite Australian rules footballers' and presenting it at the Australian Exercise Science Convention.
When I was a child I wanted to be an elite rugby union player.
Five people living or dead I would invite to dinner are Lance Armstrong, Steve Jobs, Maharishi Mahesh, Derrick Rose, Ben Cousins.
After work I like to catch up with friends.
If there were more hours in the day I would Study more, learn more.
My favourite sporting team is The Chicago Bulls. I love Derrick Rose.