Who is the ESA Introduction to Sponsorship aimed at?
The ESA Introduction to Sponsorship course forms part of ESA’s professional development programme. It is a pathway course aimed at those looking to enter the sponsorship industry – either from school, college or university – or looking to transition from another professional sector or specialism.
How heavy is the workload?
The course comprises six modules which can be completed at the preferred pace of the learner, with a time commitment of up to 10 hours.
How is the course structured?
Six interconnected modules make up the ESA Introduction to Sponsorship course, providing the building blocks for participants to gain an understanding of the sponsorship industry. We recommend that participants work through the modules in consecutive order.
When and where will the course take place?
The course is online and is completed by participants at their preferred pace.
What will I gain from doing the ESA Introduction to Sponsorship?
We anticipate that participants will gain an understanding of how the industry is structured, including the different roles and skillsets within it. We believe that those who complete the course will be more able to understand how they could embark or transition into a career in sponsorship.
How is the course assessed?
At the end of each module participants are assessed via a Q&A and required to achieve an 80% pass standard for each module. The questions relate directly to content covered in the course materials. We offer participants the chance to re-take the assessment if they have not passed each module. Certification is awarded on completion of all modules.
Is this course an accredited qualification?
Although not a formal qualification, the ESA Introduction to Sponsorship course is accredited by the sponsorship industry and respected by employers.
Who are the tutors?
Catherine Hawkins has over 20 years’ experience in sales and sponsorship and is the founder of Think!Sponsorship which provides sponsorship intelligence to the UK marketplace. Catherine works with a broad range of organisations across the sports, cultural, entertainment and B2B sectors and is a Non-Executive Director of National Parks Partnerships. She supports young professionals through the Women in Sponsorship networking and mentorship group.
Catherine was awarded an ESA Fellowship in March 2023.
Sandra Greer has worked in the industry for over 35 years in sponsorship research agencies and more recently within the sponsorship and media agency space. She has worked with sports and entertainment brands and rights holders across the full sponsorship process, from selection to delivery and finally evaluation.
Sandra and Cat have worked together for many years, most notably with Sandra providing the opening address on key industry trends at the Think!Sponsorship Conference, and supporting specialist modules within the ESA Sponsorship Sales Certificate.
Sandra now works as a freelance consultant, is a member of ESA, holds the Market Research Diploma and is a member of the MRS (Market Research Society)
Can I take part regardless of where I live?
Yes, the ESA Introduction to Sponsorship is offered 100% online with case studies and best practice examples from across Europe and the world.
Enquiries about the course
Please contact us with any queries.
Who runs the course?
The course is run by the European Sponsorship Association (ESA), the essential and inclusive community for all professionals working in sponsorship. ESA members include sponsors, rights holders, agencies and consultants, professional advisors and suppliers. We welcome both members and non-members on the course.
If you are interested in finding out more about ESA or joining the community, please visit the membership section of our wesbite, or contact us.
