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James Woollard, FIFA’s former Senior Process and Planning Manager for Business Solutions, has announced his departure from the organisation to join BLAST as its new Head of Commercial Solutions.
On LinkedIn, Woollard announced that this hire marks his first venture into esports.
(ESI Illustration) Image credit: BLAST, James Woollard, via LinkedIn
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Via LinkedIn, Woollard shared: “After an incredible two and a half years at FIFA, football’s governing body, I am delighted to embark on a new, exciting journey in 2022. FIFA has been an enjoyable, interesting and certainly educational experience.
“I have had the opportunity to meet and work with hundreds of exceptionally talented professionals in the events industry, to work on numerous projects and tournaments, and to deliver innovative products and solutions. My thanks to all of the incredible people I have worked with at FIFA and in the industry during my roles over the last few years.”
According to his statement, Woollard will be working with the BLAST team to grow the organiser’s offering by delivering global events, hosting city partnerships and new commercial possibilities for its leagues and products.
Woollard joined FIFA in 2019 as a Project Planning and Integration Manager. In early 2021 he got promoted to a senior role, which included optimising FIFA’s processes, identifying and acting on opportunities for innovation, as well as managing and delivering solutions projects.
Prior to joining FIFA, Woollard served as Head of Strategic Projects and Proposals at Wilson James and as a Project and Bid Manager at Wembley Stadium Centre of Excellence.
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Woollard added: “I look forward to the new role and to work with the BLAST and BLAST Premier teams to continue delivering electrifying events, across the world.”
Esports Insider says: Hiring professionals from spheres of traditional sports is likely to impact and shape the esports industry as it brings in experience and proven strategies from an equivalent industry. With plenty of experience in project management, James Woollard is a solid appointment for BLAST to expand its offerings.