Name: Elliot Stroud
Job: Head of Commercial Operations, Wakefield Wildcats RLFC, Wakefield & Emley AFC, and Vice Chairman, Garforth Town AFC

"In my field of work I greatly admire sports businessmen like Peter Kenyon of Chelsea, and David Dein of Arsenal."

Elliot Stroud, your Question and Answer session starts now...

How did you get into the job?

I have always had a keen interest in sport, both in football and rugby. I decided to pursue a degree in Events Management to help compliment a career in the sports industry as it had always been my ambition. I worked for a Premiership football club whilst at university and this cemented the foundations of what I wanted to achieve in sport. I was offered a job at the Wildcats and in 2002 became the 'Youngest Commercial Manager in Super League'.

What is the job about?

I am presently seeking sponsorships for the clubs, including everything from stadium naming rights to kit sponsorship. Arranging advertising, managing sales, organising events, raising the profile of the clubs, and conducting general commercial and marketing duties. It is my overall responsibility in generating the club's revenues.

What are the best and worst things about your job?

I really enjoy going out meeting clients and sponsors and establishing how my clubs can benefit and aid their businesses. Something I have always relished is creating new partnerships with local industry, and enhancing the position of the club within the local community. I also get great job satisfaction when on a match-day you see your hard work and effort paying off.

Negative aspects are the same as with any job, administration and paperwork included.

Have you had any embarrassing moments or have you got any funny stories tell?

Being mistaken for a player and being mobbed by about thirty autograph hunting fans!!

If you weren't doing this job what would you be doing?

Probably pursuing a career as a professional racing car driver.

Have you got any heroes in your field of work?

I admire a lot of people in the sports industry and in business. People from my dad, to Richard Branson. In my field of work I greatly admire sports businessmen like Peter Kenyon of Chelsea, and David Dein of Arsenal. These men have established great reputations for themselves and their clubs as major players in the football industry.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to work in your field?

Go to university, study hard and set yourself goals and targets. If you want to get into sport I would recommend pursuing a degree related to the area of which you wish to work, and making as many contacts as possible in your chosen field. Be ambitious and never give up.