By: Adam White, @FOSAdam
Front Office Sports is proud to have sat down with Martin Murray, Co-Founder and Vice President of CarMa Sports and Events. He is an alumnus of the University of Ottawa where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Leisure Studies and a Master’s Degree in Sports Administration. He was gracious enough to offer up his insight into the world of sports and event management, how important networking is, and how mentors can play a large role throughout your professional development.
What were your previous positions if any prior to your current position?
Aquatic Director, Sports Coordinator, Sport and Leisure Development Office and Leisure Technician
For those of us who do not know about CarMa Sports and Events can you explain to us what you do and what your goals are?
The mission of the company is to organize sporting events and other events in general. It could be any events of all sorts, festivals, cultural events etc. Our goal is to start regionally and move up to national representation.
What is an average day like for you as owner of CarMa Sports and Events? What are some of your day to day challenges?
As we are in our first months of our new business, we are in our building up phase. We are working on a website, marketing plans, networking, business plans etc.
Our daily challenge is to keep our objectives in sight. There is lots of work that needs to be done before we land our first project.
What is your favorite part about working in the sports industry?
It is the challenges it brings every day. There is no routine work in this field. You get to meet new people or discover new things constantly.
How important is networking in your eyes?
Networking is very important, if not the most important thing in the sports business environment. You must get your name out there, to the business, to people, to sports organizations.
What is the best career advice you’ve been given so far?
Keep improving your skills and education as this industry is always evolving. Keep an open mind.
If you had to hire someone right now, what traits would the ideal candidate poses to succeed in the sports industry?
Outgoing, former or current athlete, knowledge of sport industry.
If you saw a resume from someone who wanted to work for you, what would be one thing that you would want to see on that resume?
Current of former athletes. Someone with a sport background means that he can handle pressure, change, has a work ethic and is team oriented.
Did you have a mentor in sports when you started out? Who were they and why?
Yes, one of my professors from the University of Ottawa with whom I worked throughout my entire university studies. He gave me lots tips and pointers, from his past experiences that for sure helped and would still help me today and tomorrow.
