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Colin, VP of Operations at Sports Thread: Advize Career Interview
A George Washington University graduate with a sports management degree and psychology minor, Colin's career trajectory showcases a rapid ascent from internships in MLB operations and advertising sales to the VP of Operations at the innovative startup, Sports Thread.
The interview reveals a dynamic role managing a large advertising network, demanding adaptability, commitment, and mental resilience.
Colin emphasizes the importance of long-term vision amidst daily challenges, highlighting the autonomy and rapid learning opportunities in a constantly evolving industry.
Entry-level positions in sales or customer support are recommended, fostering quick skill acquisition and growth.
Colin's impactful advice includes questioning assumptions and maintaining focus on long-term goals—essential for navigating a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
The interview underscores the rewarding aspects of a career in the sports software industry, demanding a versatile, patient individual who thrives on challenges and independent thinking.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Colin Yost
VP of Operations
Sports Thread
George Washington University
N/a
Business Management & Admin
Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Operations and Project Management
Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Greek Life Member
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Career Path of a Vice President of Advertising at Sports Thread
Colin's career path, beginning with a sports management degree and psychology minor from George Washington University, involved early internships that helped determine their interests, leading to roles in MLB game day operations and advertising sales. This experience culminated in a rapid ascent at the startup Sports Thread, where Colin now manages the entire advertising network after starting in digital advertising sales.
Main Responsibilities of a Vice President of Operations at Sports Thread
Colin's main responsibilities at Sports Thread include managing "our advertising network," similar to major social media platforms, overseeing campaigns, and maintaining advertiser relationships. This role, however, is dynamic, also encompassing outbound marketing, lead generation, and "standard day-to-day operations," showcasing a multifaceted career path.
A Day In The Life Of A VP Of Operations At Sports Thread
A VP of Operations at Sports Thread, Colin, describes a dynamic workday involving "managing campaign data" and ensuring "the advertising network is running smoothly," collaborating extensively with the sales team on outreach strategies including "writing email copy" and identifying target industries.
Most Important Skills For A VP Of Operations At Sports Thread
Colin, Sports Thread's VP of Operations, emphasizes adaptability as a crucial skill, citing the unpredictable nature of the job: "you never really know what issues are going to arise on a daily basis." Furthermore, Colin highlights the importance of commitment, especially in a startup environment where maintaining perspective amidst challenges is key to achieving long-term goals.
Favorite Parts of Being a VP of Operations at Sports Thread
Colin, VP of Operations at Sports Thread, most enjoys the "autonomy" afforded by a trusting work environment, allowing for independent project development and "making your own destiny." The rapid pace of learning and adaptation within a constantly evolving business is another key source of satisfaction, with Colin noting that "every member of the team has probably learned more...than they have in any position previously."
Biggest Challenges Faced by a VP of Operations at Sports Thread
Colin's biggest challenge as VP of Operations at Sports Thread is maintaining focus on long-term goals amidst the "day-to-day" tasks, emphasizing the importance of remembering that "you're working towards something bigger" to overcome monotony and keep perspective. The ability to avoid getting "stuck in the day-to-day" is key to career success, according to Colin.
Favorite Parts of Working in the Sports Industry as a VP of Operations at Sports Thread
Colin, VP of Operations at Sports Thread, enjoys the rapidly evolving nature of the sports software industry, stating that the company "constantly capitalizes and adjusts based on changes in the market," including legislative changes. This aligns well with Colin's lifelong athletic background and sports studies, allowing application of past knowledge to current work creating products in this dynamic field.
What Type of Person Thrives in the Startup Industry, According to a VP of Operations at Sports Thread
Colin, VP of Operations at Sports Thread, highlights adaptability and versatility as crucial for success, noting that many struggle to "adjust to those new challenges" when tasks fall outside their core responsibilities. Patience is also key, as the startup world requires a long-term perspective, urging perseverance with the understanding that "it's not always like the movies."
What A VP Of Operations At Sports Thread Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The Startup Industry
Colin, VP of Operations at Sports Thread, wished someone had emphasized the need for "mental resilience" in the startup world, noting that popular media doesn't fully capture the constant challenges and need for patience. The experience forced Colin to quickly develop skills to navigate the fast-paced environment.
Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring VP Of Operations At Sports Thread
Entry-level sales and customer support roles offer valuable experience in fast-growing companies, providing a "great way to learn as much as you can, as quickly as you can," as Colin, a VP of Operations who started in sales, explains. This fast-paced environment, while initially "uncomfortable," offers rapid growth opportunities unavailable in larger organizations with more extensive training programs.
Significant Career Lesson From a VP of Operations at Sports Thread
Colin's most significant career lesson is "to keep your eye on the prize," emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus on long-term goals despite potential feelings of boredom or the allure of instant gratification, a crucial element for career growth and advancement within a company or across different roles. This sustained focus, Colin explains, helps navigate challenges and leverage past experiences effectively.
College Experiences That Helped a VP of Operations at Sports Thread Succeed
Colin's most impactful undergraduate experience was "questioning everything," a skill highly valuable in their current role as VP of Operations at a rapidly evolving company. This approach of "thinking outside the box" allowed them to adapt to constantly changing processes and goals, rather than simply following established procedures.
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