Q&A with Bill Montague, Associate Director at SERV Recruitment
1) What is your name and who do you work for?
Bill Montague, Associate Director & SERV Recruitment
2) What was your journey into sport?
Started my career in professional football with the Oxford United Football set up before being released and joining Woking FC at 17 years old. Joined Sporting Appointments as my first full-time role at 18 and have been working in sport recruitment ever since!
3) What is the best thing about working in sport?
Working in an industry I’m truly passionate about and placing people into organisations which make a real impact across the business is one thing I really enjoy about working in the industry. I’ve been able to work with many fantastic sporting organisations and have visited some of the best stadiums/venues across the country and globally.
4) What do SERV do?
SERV offer an authentic and reliable Recruitment / Executive Search service across a variety of international consumer markets which include: Sport, Entertainment, Retail & Venues. With a network that spans across EMEA, SERV have provided Executive to Director level placements across a variety of markets and disciplines including sports clubs, governing bodies, agencies, brands, venues, hotels, and retailers. We have the insight, sector knowledge, experience, and contacts to connect clients and candidates. Our reputation rests on the personal relationships we hold with our clients, our candidates, and our staff. We aim to provide the Sport & Entertainment industry with reliable, professional & tailored recruitment solutions.
5) As a recruiter what are the three main things you look out for on a CV?
– How is the CV written? Descriptions around each job/key areas of achievements/day-to-day tasks, as opposed to general vague bullet points.
– Personality in CVs. A CV is the first thing a client looks at, so you want to make your CV stand out in the best way possible to give you a chance of getting your foot in the door within an organisation.
– Neat and tidy. Same fonts, style running throughout the CV.
6) What common mistakes do candidates make when applying for sports jobs?
I feel sometimes candidates are trying so hard to make a move into the sports industry that the volume of roles they apply for is fairly high. We tend to see candidates who are actively looking applying for roles across many different areas. My advice would be to stick to the areas you are most interested in and have a real passion for and try to focus your attention on roles in this particular area. Applying for jobs that aren’t a good fit can make it harder to tailor your applications and demonstrate why you’re the right candidate.
7) How can I stand out when applying for competitive roles in sports?
Be unique, highlight key points in your career and try to add a personal touch to what you’re doing. Connecting with people within businesses you are interested in, asking for advice, meeting for coffees etc., it really does go a long way! Show genuine passion and knowledge about the role and organisation. Having a proactive approach and reaching out to industry professionals can make you stand out from other candidates.
9) What skills or qualifications are in the highest demand for entry-level roles?
Any experience is good experience… If a candidate has 2-3 months internship within a sports company or similar organisation, it’s a huge plus for any business. Whilst in university, gaining experience across internships, voluntary work, and work experience can really help when looking to make the move into the industry. I can say first-hand as a recruiter, the candidates we usually place in entry-level/grad roles are candidates who have worked in organisations during university in placement roles. Strong communication skills, adaptability, and analytical thinking are also in high demand.
10) Are there any industry certifications or courses that could give an advantage?
A big one if looking at marketing/sponsorship roles is the ESA Sponsorship Diploma. Otherwise, there are other sporting modules/certifications in sports/sports marketing or operations. There are also several great online courses in business, finance, and digital marketing that can help build relevant skills for the sports industry.
11) How do you see the sports job market evolving in the next 5-10 years?
Organisations seem to really be investing in talent, and I feel more sport businesses will be formed across emerging markets. We’ve seen a lot of areas grow in recent years and new sports form like E1 Series, Padel, and I’m sure many more will be visible in 10 years’ time.
12) What’s the best way to network in the sports industry?
Setting up meetings, joining sport groups in the industry (BEAGOODSPORT eg), networking events, conferences, coffees.
13) How can people contact you (and SERV)?
Bill Montague LinkedIn: Bill Montague
SERV Recruitment LinkedIn: SERV Recruitment