Sports Recruitment International

Name: Hass Aminian
Company: SPORTFIVE International (Asia)
Position: Director, New Business Development
University & degree: University of Kent, science honours
Current home town: Singapore


CAREER

Who/what inspired you to pursue a career in the sports industry?

I have pursued a career in entertainment, using television as a platform and sports as subject/genre.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Each part of my career has had its highlights, from Superbowl coverage for Channel 4, to delivering Chinese football at a time when Chinese satellite services were a matter of state security. My time at Redmandarin was educational and inspiring, and I am now at the cutting edge of helping Asian brands discover the true value of the sports platform. But most importantly, the highlights have been the inspirational leaders I have had!

What does your typical day at SPORTFIVE involve?

At the moment a typical day involves travel!

What are the most challenging aspects of your job?

Managing expectations, resources and negotiating across time zones, languages and cultures.

What are the most enjoyable aspects of your job?

Travel, but also meeting some exceptional professionals from all corners of the world.

What tips would you give to students wanting to break into the sports industry?

Research the career prospects and get a face to face meeting, at which listen to what is being asked of you, and act as a solution, not another problem!

What are the most common mistakes you've seen candidates making?

Not listening to problems, and offering to help sell blue chip assets; these sell themselves, it’s the challenging ones that require skills!

How has elite sport changed since you first entered the industry?

Asian brands have become multinational and brought technological innovation to their partnerships. Consumer innovation is easily identified and improves fan experience. The other sectors are less obvious but just as important!


SPORT/ LIFE

Favourite sports to watch?

Watching any sport with clients, and watching my kids swim!

Favourite sports to participate in?

Sadly, none on a regular basis.

What in your opinion has been the sporting highlight of the past 12 months?  

Juventus’ new stadium has had an amazing impact to the Italian football scene, and watching a game there is an amazing highlight! EURO 2012 had a great welcoming atmosphere some great sponsor activations, and I was introduced to Roland Garros hospitality! And BBC International’s coverage of London’s Olympic Games has been great for us that have not had the time to watch the previews, live events and highlights. And the Opening Ceremony, that will resonate for years to come.

Non-sport hobbies?

Reading, research, music, technology, anything to do with family!

Where did you go for your last holiday?

Sanur, Bali.

What piece of technology would you be lost without?

Anything that gives me web connectivity. Ideally a Smartphone.