Tim Watsford
ACPE GRADUATE 2004 (Sports Business)
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How did you enjoy your time at ACPE?
Thoroughly, I have taken many fantastic memories with me and after all ACPE has aided me in getting where I am today.
What have you done since graduating from ACPE?
Since Graduating from ACPE with a Bachelors degree in Sports Studies (Business) in 2004 I found full time employment within the ranks of the Sydney Cricket and Sports Ground Trust (SCGT), primarily working within the Venue Services and Membership Department. During my time at the SCGT I was exposed to a variety of different sports across many different fields firming up my passion for working within the industry. A little under two years later the opportunity to join Australian Rugby arose and with a heavy background in the sport I jumped at the opportunity. This role was offered in the way of a membership assistant. Having my foot in the door at one of the worlds strongest unions was such a great opportunity. I wanted to pursue my passion for Events and Operations and after a short time working in Memberships I was offered a role in the Events and Operations department working on the delivery of all Wallaby Test matches across Australia.
What is your position at Australian Rugby Union?
I am currently the Program Coordinator Operations at Australian Rugby Union.
What does your role at Australian Rugby entail?
My role entails assisting in the planning, coordination and delivery of all major Australian Rugby Events that are played on home soil. This includes being the centre point for all internal and external constituents to help meet the desired expectations. For example, Events and Operations work closely with partnerships to make sure all sponsor commitments are met.
What is it like working for Australian Rugby/Wallabies?
To put the day to day experience into a few short words I would describe it as; exciting, challenging and ever changing. Being a leading international sport there is always something new to learn and with the continuing competition between Australian sporting codes there is always the desire to be the benchmark.
What challenges does Rugby Union face into the future?
Three major challenges that come to mind about what the future holds come in the form of:
- the current economic climate,
- the ongoing competition between Australian sporting codes, and
- the ongoing expansion of the game into foreign countries.