Kumaran Parameshwaran

Kumaran studied our Sports Business and Innovation MSc programme and graduated in 2023.

Kumaran in a graduation gown holding a basketball

My journey to Loughborough University London

I chose to pursue a master’s degree in Sports Business and Innovation at Loughborough University London because I wanted to deepen my understanding of international standards and practices within the sports industry. I was particularly drawn to the course’s focus on applying innovative strategies to drive positive change and make a meaningful impact in the community.

I found the course invaluable for its comprehensive exploration of various sporting environments. Topics such as sustainability, women in sports, community engagement, volunteering, and networking stood out to me. Above all, the emphasis on building meaningful relationships has been incredibly beneficial.

Career development

After graduation, I completed an internship with the London Basketball Association (LBA), which helped me build practical skills and expand my professional network. A few months later, I secured a full-time role as a Marketing and Project Manager. My time at Loughborough prepared me for this by providing the knowledge, connections, and confidence needed to excel in the field.

My role as a Marketing and Project Manager focuses on developing creative strategies, managing content creation and scheduling, and handling diverse projects, I gained experience in how to successfully execute a multi-channel marketing strategy, and I managed to increase our Instagram followers by an impressive 165%, amplifying our brand visibility across social media platforms and the website.

I’m also collaborating with Loughborough University London in our Corporate Program initiative, which provides students with valuable opportunities to gain experience through live industry projects, earning additional qualifications and getting access to paid roles in the sports industry. This initiative is designed to equip students with the tools and experience necessary to step confidently into the sports industry for full-time roles.

I’m particularly grateful to Dan and the Future Space team for their continued support in linking the LBA with Loughborough University London on various occasions. Their encouragement has been instrumental in fostering what I hope will be a fruitful and impactful collaboration.

Teaching at Loughborough University London

Learning from industry experts was an incredible experience. They provided invaluable insights into the sports environment, highlighting both its opportunities and challenges. While the realities of the industry can be a bittersweet pill to swallow, the ongoing guidance and mentorship I received helped me navigate these complexities and reach where I am today.

I’m grateful to Emily, my co-tutor and professor, who supported me throughout my journey. Whether it was enhancing my academic performance or connecting me with industry experts, her guidance played a key role in preparing me for a successful career in the sports industry.

Highlights of my time at Loughborough

Beyond winning the Personal Best Award 2022-23 and the Loughborough Experience Award 2023, I discovered that volunteering is an incredible networking tool. I had the privilege of participating in renowned events such as the London Marathon, where I served as the university team lead, the Brighton Marathon, the Manchester Marathon and the Commonwealth Games 2023, where I supported Team England during the kitting-out event.