Making sport our business

A “game-changer” event delving into the multifaceted aspects of sports marketing and administration will take place at UCC next week.

UCC and the Cork branch of Marketing Institute Ireland have teamed up once again to deliver their annual collaboration which takes place on 6 February in UCC’s Aula Maxima.

Entitled The Business of Sport, the event will take the form of a panel discussion exploring the commercial and strategic dimensions, societal impact, and economic contributions linked with sports marketing.

The discussion will look to underscore the significance of sports in society, highlighting its role in community building, promoting health and wellbeing, and making substantial economic contributions.

Attendees, including students and industry professionals, are poised to gain valuable insights from the panellists’ extensive experiences.

The panel discussion, chaired by Dr Conor Drummond of UCC, will feature three distinguished experts: Dermot Usher, owner of Cork City FC; Ian Flanagan, CEO of Munster Rugby; and Mary O'Connor, CEO of Federation of Irish Sport.

Dr Dave Alton, Business School Lecturer at UCC, expressed his excitement for the partnership, emphasizing the event's focus on the broader impact of sports.

“This year, we are focusing on The Business of Sport, and it's great to have such an expert lineup of panelists,” said Dr Alton.

Ezara Ahern, MII Cork Branch Chair, added: “The Business of Sport is an incredible topic.

The sports industry is at the forefront of connecting the community and presents ample marketing opportunities that connect directly with consumers and have ample influence on society. I look forward to a front row seat to listen to this incredible line up of speakers.”

The event takes place in the Aula Maxima, UCC, on 6 February at 6pm. Registration is essential, and tickets are €15 for Marketing Institute Ireland members, and €25 for non-members, and are available from mii.ie/marketing-events.