From developing and executing marketing strategies at multiple major sports clubs, including St Helens RFC (Rugby Football Club) and Bolton Wanderers Football Club, to becoming a Business Management with Sports Lecturer, Dave Lowe’s career is multi-faceted and interesting to say the least.
Dave has expertise in sports business analytics, the operations of running high-profile successful clubs, financial fair play and elevating fan experience, knowledge he now shares with our students on a day-to-day basis through his engaging lectures.
We recently caught up with Dave to discuss his career journey, what he loves about working at Salford and highlights from his years in industry.
How did you get into academia as a career path?
In one sense it was inevitable, as my parents were both teachers. So, after a 20-year career in industry, I wanted to support students by equipping them with the practical skills needed to ensure they’re ready to progress into their careers as work-ready graduates. After losing both parents, I decided the time was right to move into academia. My teaching philosophy is to make learning authentic for students with real-life, practical activities that prepare them for their career with knowledge and skills.
Why did you choose to work at the University of Salford?
I wanted to start my research journey and my previous role was focused on teaching and learning, with no support or allowance for research. I was offered the opportunity to move to Salford and discovered a lot of synergy with my own values, as well as opportunities to contribute to the further development of the Business Management with Sport course. It also provided an opportunity to be part of an existing Business School with a good reputation.
What’s the best thing about being an academic at Salford?
The support from colleagues and the opportunities for personal development are excellent. I feel like I’m always learning but I’m not alone, there is always someone to turn to for advice and assistance, and my peers provide a great support system to help with my own development.
I also like that Salford places such a strong emphasis on providing networking opportunities and connecting students with industry professionals, so they are fully prepared for life after university.
Can you tell us about any of your career highlights to-date?
I have had an exciting career in the field of sports, having worked at St Helens RFC and Bolton Wanderers, helping to develop ticketing and membership strategies, digital marketing strategies, and social media strategies.
As my research journey is still in its early days, I would say my achievements are delivering most of the modules on the Sports Business Management degree at UA92, with 100% pass rate and 85%+ 2:1 or above. Also, ensuring each module had industry-specific activities and industry guest speakers from partners and my own network, so that students left with some form of industry experience or connections, was a big achievement.
What’s your current research focused on?
I’m right at the start of my journey but my focus is data analysis in sports business, fan engagement and fan experience – a huge and growing area when it comes to both on the field and off the field success. There is so much regulation now when it comes to ensuring club operations are financially sustainable and effective data analysis in this space is critical for long-term success.
Do you have any published papers we can read?
Not yet, but watch this space!
And finally, the all important question, where in Manchester or Salford is best to grab a coffee?
Pot Kettle Black – they have two places, Barton Arcade and Angel Gardens. The coffee is served with a glass of water – to maximise the taste – and the pastries are amazing! Oh, and the owners are ex-St Helens players and I’m always happy to support former colleagues.