In this episode of the Business as a Football podcast, David sits down with Dave Lipp, a former sports media and tech executive with an impressive background, including roles at Sky, NBC Universal, and as the business development and strategy officer at Manchester United. Dave shares insights on his transition back into sports, the significance of networking, and the challenges of working in a fast-paced football environment.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Diverse Background in Sports and Media: The guest's career began in sports with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment in Canada, followed by significant roles in media at Sony Pictures, Sky, and NBCUniversal.

• Cultural Adaptation and Learning: Moving from North America to the UK, the guest emphasised the importance of understanding the different operational structures in football, such as the lack of salary caps and relegation, which contrasts with North American sports.

• Importance of Networking: Building a strong professional network was crucial for the guest, providing support and opportunities during career transitions, including the move to Manchester United.

• Data-Driven Fan Engagement: The guest discussed the significance of data in understanding fan behaviour and preferences, particularly for global audiences, and how this knowledge can enhance the fan experience, even for those who may never visit the stadium.

• Balancing Business and Fan Experience: While football clubs must generate revenue and satisfy shareholders, the guest highlighted the need for a fair relationship with fans, ensuring that their experiences and needs are prioritised in the club's commercial strategies.

BEST MOMENTS

"The biggest thing to wrap your head around is just the pyramid structure of how the league operates in [the UK]. Most North American sports have cost certainty where there's a salary cap."

"I always kind of wondered what life would be like in California, but no, there was a natural welcoming to the city to expats."

"I think all it's gonna do is make you a more well-rounded individual in life. And that's what I think the world needs more of."

"I did a lot of research too... I just became a lot more well-versed in all things United."

"There's a fair and equitable relationship that can exist where there is a value exchange."

GUEST'S LINKS

https://www.linkedin.com/in/davelipp/

OUR SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessoffootballpodcast/

Tik Tok : https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoffootball

HOST BIO

Right out of the block, David Chimbaza took his International Football Business degree to do exactly what it says on the tin: Launch his own International Football Business, DTCMEDIAUK. His company works with professional leaders & business owners in the football industry to create, monetize & scale their brands for their business & professional gains. Having created and managed multiple of his own sports social media accounts from the age of 15, many of which have scaled thousands of pounds & millions of views across 3 different platforms, David has constantly found ways to bring new and engaging entertainment to his audience. Now documenting his story of managing his Global business, his experiences in Stewarding, digital management & many more, David will bring you a fresh insight into how anyone can conquer the industry.