Best pitch presenter you’ve ever seen:
Kevin Vandrau in sales mode – his record speaks for itself. When it comes to taking the room on a journey, Jos Stokhuyzen (below) is peerless
Best sports marketing campaign (that wasn’t yours):
Nike, Good v Evil, featuring Cantona, Ronaldo, Maldini et al
Best agency (that isn’t yours):
I’m always impressed by Matta’s work
Best young industry talent:
Harriet Young - combines serious smarts with ferocious work-ethic. Bradley Scriven – hungry sales badger.
Best sporting event attended:
I’ve had the fortune to attend some remarkable events, but I think Super League Grand Final is a bit of a hidden gem. A heady mix of family-friendly football tribalism at Old Trafford.
Best sporting event on TV:
Ben Stokes (and Jack Leach), Headingley final day, 2019, watched huddled round an iPad at a family BBQ
Best brand ambassador:
Stan Smith
Best film containing a scene depicting the sports business:
Concussion for an eye-opener. Icarus for a reality check. TT3d: Closer to the Edge for drama. Blades of Glory for the lols.
Best book recommendation:
Anything by Michael Lewis. Tom Burgis’ Kleptopia and Catherine Belton’s Putin’s People are absorbing pages turners that take you under the skin of the world we currently live in.
Best bar or pub:
Best is a strong word, but the Boater in Bath holds many fond memories
Best restaurant:
I’Brindellone, Florence
Best holiday resort:
Anywhere with childcare
Best box set:
The Wire . Set the standard. Yet to be beaten.
Best influence on your career:
My parents brought me up to do a job you enjoy. So I guess it’s their fault I’m in this industry!
Best dinner companions (min 4, max 6):
Lance Armstrong, Jonathan Liew, Michael Lewis, Timothy Snyder, Barry Glendenning
Best job in the sports biz:
Owner of Bath Rugby
Best professional regret:
Not doing a season or two on the F1 circuit
Best skill you most covet:
The ability to cook well
Best trait you admire in others:
Reliability
Best overrated virtue:
Of the classical seven, it’s hard to argue for chastity
Best ambition:
Make a difference