Starting a new job is a bit like stepping onto the field for the first time - you’re excited, slightly nervous, unsure of the outcome, but mostly just hoping you don’t make a complete fool of yourself.
That was me a few months ago when I joined Futures Sport & Entertainment as a Graduate Analyst. Now, after settling in, I can confidently say this place is just as exciting as the sports industry we work in.
From audience measurement deep dives to exploring media valuation models, my days have been filled with data, insights, and (of course) way too many coffee runs.
A Crash Course in Sports Data (With a Side of Coffee)
The best part? The team. From day one, everyone has been incredibly welcoming and willing to answer my endless stream of questions. Whether it’s a deep dive into viewership trends or a casual chat about the weekend’s fixtures,
there’s always something interesting going on.
One thing became clear early on - there’s a lot to learn. From understanding data models to getting to grips with internal processes, it can feel overwhelming at first.
But the great thing about Futures is that no one expects you to know everything on day one. The team makes sure you ease into the role rather than throwing you into the deep end, and there’s always someone on hand to guide you through it all.
Whether it’s answering my (many) questions or walking me through new tasks step by step, the support has been invaluable in making sure I never feel overloaded.
Of course, no first month would be complete without a few classic “new job” moments - talking while on mute, second-guessing every email sign-off, and pretending to understand Python scripts while furiously Googling them. But hey, that’s all part of the fun, right?
From audience measurement deep dives to exploring media valuation models, my days have been packed with insights, data, and the occasional frantic ChatGPT support to decode an Excel formula. The work is fast-paced but rewarding, and every project offers a new challenge.
I’ve had the chance to work with our motorsports clients (an area of passion for me), helping brands and rights holders make sense of their audiences - turns out, there’s a science behind sponsorship deals, and it’s more than just sticking a logo on a race car.
More Than Just a Day Job
What really sets Futures apart for me, though, is the culture. The office itself is a dream - spacious, great views, and designed for collaboration (or for those much-needed breaks with colleagues).
There’s even a balcony for when you’ve stared at your screen for too long and need a quick breather while taking in the London skyline.
Then there are the perks - live sports and music playing all day, keeping the energy up, and free breakfast and lunch so you never have to worry about meal planning. Plus, the hybrid working policy makes it easy to balance work and life.
Team-building is a big deal here. Whether it’s team drinks after work or a dedicated team day, there are plenty of chances to get to know your colleagues beyond spreadsheets and reports. And if that’s not motivation enough,
there’s a quarterly award where one lucky employee gets to attend any sporting event in the world - talk about a serious incentive to bring your A-game!
What I found particularly refreshing was the emphasis on learning and development. There’s a real focus on upskilling and making sure everyone has the tools they need to work smarter, not harder. It’s clear that Futures invests in its people,
which is something you don’t always see.
Looking Ahead
One of the most exciting aspects of working here is the opportunity to get involved in major international sporting events through our sister agencies like Octagon and FRUKT. The company actively encourages volunteering at these events,
which is an incredible way to gain firsthand experience in the industry.
If the first month is anything to go by, I can’t wait to see what’s next. More data, more insights, and maybe, just maybe, a shot at that dream sports trip!