Fan engagement, the future of video and branded content among subjects discussed at iSportconnect’s popular Media & Communications Masterclass
October 11, 2017
iSportconnect, the largest global private network of sport business executives, has secured high praise from delegates for bringing together a wide-range of experts at the 2017 Media & Communications Masterclass.
The event was held at Charles Russell Speechlys’ offices in central London, with an array of high-ranking delegates in attendance.
The opening panel focused on the subject of internal communications and stakeholder engagement with Robert Sullivan, Strategy and Communications Director at The FA, Elizabeth Birchall, Head of Communications at UK Athletics & London 2017, and Adrian Bevington of Adrian Bevington Sport & PR Ltd, combining to offer expert insight into industry best practices and how to protect credibility.
Check out the highlights from our Media & Communications Masterclass. ⚡️https://t.co/1yg04yV0cR
— iSportconnect (@iSportconnect) October 10, 2017
Michael Underhill, Strategic Media Consultant at Ooyala, delivered an engaging keynote speech discussing how video has become a key ingredient in communication during the digital era.
Attendees were quick to pose plenty of questions of their own and the topic of live vs highlights led to an absorbing debate in regards to what could be next for video amid the potential threat of oversaturation.
Discussions continued throughout a close-knit networking break as delegates savoured an opportunity to share insights and experiences in their respective fields of communications.
The second panel of the day considered the theme of media and fan engagement, which has become crucial due to the rise of social media.
Fiona McLachlan, VP Communications at Eurosport, Steve Wilson, Director of Communications and International Relations at ITF, and Leon Mann, Director of Refresh Films, shared innovative viewpoints and thoughts on how executives can integrate both traditional media and digital outlets into communications strategies.
Liz Birchall, Head of Communications at UK Athletics & London 2017, said: “There’s always great people in the room and always a varied number of people from different sectors of the industry who can give you a real insight into the challenges they face.”
Steve Wilson, Director of Communications and International Relations at ITF said: “I’ve been on the other side of the fence for most of my career as a journalist. But now being on this side of the fence it’s been fascinating to be among my colleague in the communications field and hear their experiences, advice and professional words. It’s been a really helpful and influential experience.”
Peter Hannon, Head of Media and Communications at Commonwealth Games England said: “All the different panels were really interesting and there’s lot of things we can takeaway. I think we’ll be heading straight back to the office and putting some things into practice! It’s been very useful to be introduced to new people and speak to people you don’t normally get to talk to.”
iSportconnect has an exciting calendar of upcoming events, including the Dubai Summit and London Directors’ Club. Stay up-to-date with all future announcements on isportconnect.com. Please contact Chris Edbrook (chris@isportconnect.com) to register your interest.
