The global sports industry in India is no longer just about athletes, on-field performance and Fame. It has become so much more. Behind every successful sports team, league, or event is a robust network of professionals managing marketing, sponsorships, operations, analytics, and fan engagement. As the industry expands, the demand for skilled professionals who understand the business of sports has skyrocketed. This has paved the way for institutions that equip passionate individuals with the knowledge and industry connections to thrive in this dynamic sector.
Diverse Student Backgrounds: A Unique Strength
One of the key strengths of sports business education today is its ability to attract students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. The sports industry benefits from a mix of perspectives, skill sets, and experiences, making it an exciting and inclusive field for aspiring professionals.
Students entering sports management programs often come from fields such as:
Engineering (BE/BTech): Bringing analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to the industry.
Business (BBA, BMS, BCom, MBA): Equipped with knowledge in marketing, finance, and operations to drive business growth in sports.
Law (LLB): Playing a crucial role in sports contracts, sponsorship negotiations, and compliance.
Media and Communications: Enhancing the digital presence and fan engagement strategies for sports brands.
Sports Management and Psychology: Understanding athlete performance, team dynamics, and sports consumer behavior.
This diversity fosters collaborative thinking, allowing students to approach challenges with innovative solutions. The mix of fresh graduates, working professionals transitioning into sports management, and former athletes creates a dynamic learning environment that mirrors the real-world sports business landscape.
Where GISB Alumni Work: Making an Impact Across the Industry
The success of a sports business program is often reflected in the career paths of its alumni. GISB graduates have gone on to work with some of the most prestigious organizations in the global sports ecosystem and have had a major impact in their fields. These companies include:
Major sports leagues and teams such as Mumbai City FC, East Bengal FC, and Rajasthan United FC.
Sports marketing and sponsorship agencies like JSW Sports, Meraki, and Engage Digital Partners.
Media and broadcasting giants including Disney Star, Sony Sports Network, and CricViz.
Global sports organizations like the Indian Premier League (IPL), Pro Kabaddi League, and Sportradar.
Sports tech and data analytics firms such as Sportz Interactive, Hudle, and Birbal.
Event management companies like Procam International and Tata Mumbai Marathon.
These organizations play a crucial role in shaping the future of sports business, and GISB alumni are at the forefront of this transformation.
How GISB Supports Its Alumni
GISB continues to support its alumni long after they graduate, ensuring they remain connected to the industry and have access to ongoing opportunities. The institute fosters a strong alumni network, providing mentorship, job placement assistance, and exclusive networking events with industry leaders. Whether through career advancement programs, knowledge-sharing sessions, or direct job referrals, GISB is committed to helping its alumni grow and excel in their sports business careers.
Success Stories: Alumni Making an Impact
Swayam Pattanaik – Senior Executive – Brand Solutions, Sports at Disney Star
“GISB’s live projects provide students with an excellent opportunity to learn, research, and understand real-world challenges that sports organizations face. I enjoyed working on projects with renowned sports organizations such as Chelsea FC, the Premier League, Borussia Dortmund, and JSW Sports.”
Arjun Mehra – Senior Executive Marketing at Sony Sports Network
“Through the GISB program, I was able to transfer skills from my past work experience in the sports industry to an area of the business that I am extremely passionate about. Networking with industry experts who serve as faculty members helped me gain a fundamental understanding of how the sports business truly operates at the highest level.”
Leah Poonawala – Assistant Manager – Marketing (Pro Kabaddi League) at The Walt Disney Company
“As a former athlete and entrepreneur, I joined GISB to learn more about the business of sport since I was really fascinated by it. The industry-designed and delivered program provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the requirements for success in this industry. Through the program’s networking possibilities, I was able to secure an internship and, subsequently, a full-time position with one of the country’s largest sports leagues.”
Vedant Shinde – Client Success Partner – Digital Advertisement at Sportradar
“The program at GISB has given me an in-depth knowledge of the global sports landscape and the type of sports management careers that I can pursue. I have interacted and learned from some of the biggest names in sport and interned with top companies as well. GISB is the perfect program for anyone interested in gaining valuable knowledge and exposure in order to contribute to the sports industry.”
How GISB Helps Aspiring Sports Professionals
Global Institute of Sports Business (GISB) is committed to shaping the next generation of sports leaders by offering a comprehensive, industry-driven curriculum. Here’s how GISB helps its students transition into successful careers:
1. Industry-Focused Curriculum
GISB’s programs are designed in collaboration with industry professionals, ensuring students gain relevant knowledge and skills that align with industry demands.
2. Hands-on Learning & Live Projects
Students work on real-world projects with top sports organizations, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges.
3. Internships & Networking Opportunities
GISB facilitates internships and placements with top sports brands, leagues, and agencies, giving students a head start in their careers.
4. Expert Faculty & Industry Mentors
Students learn from and interact with top executives, former athletes, and industry veterans who provide invaluable guidance.
5. Global Exposure
With guest lectures, study tours, and collaborations with international sports organizations, GISB students gain a global perspective on the sports business.
How big is the sports industry in India?
The sports business industry is evolving rapidly, and GISB alumni are playing a key role in shaping its future. With a diverse student base, strong industry connections, and an experiential learning approach, GISB provides aspiring professionals with the right platform to launch successful careers. Whether you’re a fresh graduate, a professional looking to transition into sports management, or a former athlete eager to explore the business side of sports, GISB offers the perfect gateway to a thriving career in this exciting industry.
Embarking on a career in Indian sports management demands a strategic choice of education, and Global Institute of sports business (GISB) emerges as a top contender. GISB’s programme is uniquely tailored to the industry’s needs, blending theoretical knowledge with practical insights gleaned from real-world scenarios. Boasting a faculty comprising seasoned professionals and experts, GISB ensures students receive mentorship from the best minds in the field. Moreover, GISB’s extensive network within the sports industry facilitates invaluable networking opportunities, paving the way for internships and collaborations with leading organisations.