FIFA MASTER ALUMNI - WHERE ARE THEY NOW? - ELIZABETH EASTMAN

Elizabeth Eastman            

Current Position: ICT Product Owner at UEFA

Year of Graduation: 2014 (14th edition)

Nationality: American

What does my current role involve?

I joined UEFA in March 2020 after having previously worked at FIFA and MyCujoo. In my current role at UEFA I am an ICT Product Owner for the UEFA.com website. I help to lead the product’s life cycle from design to delivery. I work closely with various stakeholders, both internal and external to UEFA, and particularly with divisions such as marketing, football operations and communications. My role involves driving the vision for the product from a technical and design standpoint in alignment with the corporate vision to ensure we are delivering a user-centric solution and a top-class experience. My work includes all UEFA competitions, the corporate website and other 3rd party solutions.

Outside of my regular role, UEFA also offers opportunities to get involved with competitions in operational roles on site. I enjoy participating in these roles too when the opportunity is available.

Which aspects of the FIFA Master course have helped you the most in your career?

The aspect of the FIFA Master course which I found most useful was the Neuchâtel law module. The classes on Swiss and European law helped significantly in the roles I have held since graduation. Understanding the legal basis of European institutions and sporting decisions is key to understanding the industry.

The second helpful aspect was the alumni network. The FIFA Master Alumni Association (FMA) network has always proven to be helpful both as a student and after graduation. You are always able to find someone with knowledge in industry specific topics and who is willing to sit down with you and offer whatever support they can.

What advice would you give to future students on the course?

The advice I would give future FIFA Master students is to try and get involved as much as possible. It is a truly unique and life changing experience which goes by very quickly. Appreciate the time with your classmates as well as every field visit and lecture. Also, it is important to not only take advantage of your time as a student, but also remember to contribute after graduation so that future generations of students get the same welcome and educational experience as you.

FIFA Master - International Master in Management, Law and Humanities of Sport, ranked No.1 Course in Europe 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 by the SportBusiness International global rankings.

Organised by CIES in partnership with De Montfort University (United Kingdom), SDA Bocconi School of Management (Italy) and the University of Neuchâtel (Switzerland).