Joseph
Sullivan

Joe Sullivan graduated from NTU in 2015 and has since had a very exciting career in the Sports Science industry. We caught up with him to find out about his most recent role in which he is assisting the women’s England football team in the Summer 2022 European Championship.

By utilising all the data, information and technology that is now available in professional sport, Joe assists football coaches in the selection and development of players of all ages for the National Squads. There is a particular emphasis on younger players, as it is important to understand what they succeed at and areas which they could improve. Currently, Joe is very busy with the 2022 Women’s European Championship which is being hosted by England. As part of the analysis and scouting team, Joe profiles the opposing teams to identify their strengths, weaknesses and key players. This information is used to help the England team prepare for their matches. Joe is hoping for great success for the England team at the 2022 European Championship!

Due to the constant changes in the industry, Joe strives to be adaptable and have a diverse skill set. Recently, he challenged himself and obtained a Data Analysis for Management certificate. “Many industries are so popular and highly competitive, you never know what could make a difference to you standing out in the end.”  During his career, Joe has worked with world-class sportspeople and coaches at some of the best stadiums in the world. One of Joe’s favourite aspects of his role is solving problems for the coaches, especially when he cracks a particularly tricky calculation! When asked if he is ever faced with any challenges, Joe said “Always! I think that is just part of being an adult!” His advice for facing and overcoming challenges is to be self-reflective and honest, as well as to remember your motivations.

During his time at NTU, Joe embarked on his first experience of working in the Sports Science industry. “Without the contacts provided by the university, and their willingness to help me get a placement, I might not be in the position I am today. The learning environment at NTU is individual and relationship based, something I have taken into my jobs.”  For advice an inspiration, Joe often turns to his personal tutor from his time at NTU. Joe shared some great exam advice for our students: “Buddy up and plan. There are a lot of people in the same position - a problem shared etc and time might even go a bit quicker. Everyone says plan - but I think this means different things for different people - doesn’t always mean big calendars and colour codes on the wall, it could be a lot more personal to you. Don’t leave any what if’s at university.”

Joe’s top tip for job seekers is to be proactive, not reactive. He adds that, although it may be embarrassing, it is always a good idea to have someone read through your CV and cover letter as we can sometimes downplay our own achievements. He offered a great tip for interview preparation: “Everyone loves a problem solver - listen, be independent and the easiest way to buy into an organisation is to solve some of their problems.”

Joe shared some great advice for others: “Whatever the industry you're in, relationships are key. Not just in your current role, but make the effort to maintain links with university and previous employment. You work so hard to build those relationships, you don't want to waste them, especially when they may know you so well. I have seen the most skilled practitioners not fulfil their potential because they couldn’t form relationships with the people in the building.”

So, what’s next for Joe? In the short term future, he has some very exciting work lined up with the England Women’s senior team in preparation for the Summer 2023 World Cup. As he continues to develop his career, Joe aspires to gain management experience. At such an exciting time in the industry, the future certainly looks bright for Joe!