At Sports Advisory Partners Australia, our strength lies in the diverse expertise and unwavering passion of our team. Each member brings a unique perspective, contributing to our holistic approach in delivering game-changing results for sporting organisations and stakeholders. Our ‘Meet the Team’ series offers an inside look at the people who embody our values and drive our success. In this instalment, we chat with Executive Director Sam Chadwick, and discover his journey and contributions to our mission.
What made you want to pursue a career in sport?
I’ve always had an obsession for sport and understand its unique power and influence if harnessed effectively. I also love the law, but did not want to be a ‘typical’ lawyer (we all know what I mean) given I am outcome focused and commercially minded. I was therefore natural to combine the two in sports law. However, I also thrive in strategic planning, business development and problem solving and wanted to use these skills to deliver tangible outcomes that benefit both the organisation and the sport itself.
What do you love most about working at SAPA?
I enjoy and am extremely proud that we assist our clients achieve practical and meaningful outcomes, and we have their trust to support them in various areas of expertise including strategy, commercialisation, business development, legal, governance and leadership & culture. I’m also lucky to work alongside a team of exceptional individuals – people who are talented and passionate about the work we do.
What do you do day to day in your role?
My role is incredibly diverse and no two days are the same. I am involved in a broad range of work across strategy development, strategic reviews, commercialisation, business development, legal advice, regulatory assistance and governance support, as well as leading the strategic planning and management of the SAPA business with Ian as co-Executive Directors.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time outside of work?
I try to stay active and enjoy spending time with my family, exercising, coaching and watching my kids play sport and early morning swims with my wife. And wine, of course.
What is your favourite sporting moment all-time?
I’d have to say one of the most unforgettable sporting moments for me was the Socceroos match against Japan, during the 2006 World Cup. That moment represents everything I love about sport – against the odds, skill, spirit, passion and intensity to create history and inspire a nation.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to enter the sporting industry?
The competition for roles within the sporting industry can be fierce, as the demand for positions outweighs the supply for jobs. My advice would be don’t be disenfranchised if you get knocked back, get up again. Instead, focus on building your experience and demonstrating that you are eager to work in the industry in any role by volunteering, undertaking sport-specific study or research, or similar. Your character and skills will ultimately rise to the surface.