Introducing alumni in focus, a new series where we speak to former ESA Diploma students to find out how their careers have progressed since graduating Dip ESA. Daniel McEwan, who participated in the Diploma in 2016 and leads the partnerships department at F1 team McLaren Racing, is next up.
- What role were you in when you started the ESA Diploma?
Account Manager at brandRapport (This is now part of CAA)
- What role are you in now, and how has your career advanced since graduating?
Head of Partnerships, McLaren Racing. From undertaking the ESA Diploma I was able to use my increased skillset and knowledge to move into Formula 1, becoming Account Director of the Johnnie Walker F1 account at Just Marketing International (JMI). From there I progressed through both the JMI and then CSM businesses to Senior Account Director then onto Associate Director of CSM responsible for Johnnie Walker F1, Lucozade and Business Development.
Read more: ESA Diploma alumni in focus: Natasha Cabral, AEG
- What skills and networks did you develop through the ESA Diploma?
The ESA diploma gave me a far greater understanding of the sports marketing and media ecosystem as a whole vs. the traditional activation path I had come from. Upskilling in Contracts, Commercial, Social, Digital, Comms & PR have all helped bring a more holistic and integrated approach to delivering great partnerships throughout my career. I am still in contact with a small group of my ESA intake – work directly with a couple and keep up with the great work others are doing in their respective roles.
Read more: ESA Diploma alumni in focus: Luke Wilson, Pitch
- Why would you recommend the ESA Diploma to those looking to advance their career in sponsorship?
I benefited from the course and have since put numerous team members through it as I believe it gives a great grounding into the wider marketing and commercial landscape. You also get a chance to meet and work with like-minded driven people who care about the future of sport and standards of our industry as a whole – which is something I am very passionate about.
