Placement Overview

Responsible for the management of Downham Market Leisure Centre, Downham Market Town Hall and 54 children’s play areas and skate parks.

Generic Job Description for a Sports Manager

Sports Managers provide sports access for people in their local community. They can work for a specific leisure facility or for the local government providing general sports access.

Their aim is to ensure that people of all ages and abilities have the opportunity to take part in sport, helping them to lead a healthier lifestyle.

Sports Managers work involves putting in place strategies to improve standards and increase public participation in sports and promoting sports activities.

Skills:

• Good communication skills
• A commitment to sport
• Enthusiasm
• Motivation
• Organisation skills
• The ability to work with all kinds of people

Pay:

• Entry £12,000
• £15,000 - £25,000 with experience
• £40,000 or more for Sports Managers heading a large team of Sports Development Officers

Please not that salary figures are a guide only. Actual salaries may vary depending on the organisation and geographical location

Hours:

• Evening and weekend work is common
• Work loads are likely to be heavier during School holidays
• Long hours may be required in order to meet targets

Environment:

• Partly office based
• Sports activities may be carried out indoors or outdoors in all conditions
• Travel may be necessary to schools and community groups

Qualifications:

• A degree in a sports or leisure related subject will improve chances of employment
• Most degree courses require five GCES passes grades A-C and two A-Levels
• Other qualifications may be accepted including BTEC and NVQ in Sports 

Training:

• Sports organisations offer a range of professional development courses
• Official organisations include the National Association for Sports Development (NASD) and The Institute of Leisure and Amenities Management (ILAM)
• Some training is on-the-job through an apprenticeship scheme 

Opportunities:

• Employers include Local Authorities, Sports and Leisure Centres and some colleges and universities
• There are around 100,000 people in the UK working in Sports Development positions
• Opportunities are likely to increase due to London winning the 2012 Olympics bid

Links:

www.isrm.co.uk - The Institute of Sport and Recreation Management

www.ilam.co.uk - Institute of Leisure and Amenity Management

www.nasd.uk.com - The National Association for Sports Development