Meet Paul Walters, Lecturer in Business Management with Sport here at Salford Business School, as well as a seasoned events consultant who has worked across the globe covering many world-renowned, large-scale events.
After graduating from the University of Salford with a degree in Architecture, his career took an unexpected turn and led him to managing some incredible events such as the PGA Golf Tour in Denmark and Creamfields.
Now, he teaches at the University, inspiring the next generation of business managers hoping to pursue a career in the sports industry, whilst conducting impactful research to further innovation in the industry.
How did you get into academia as a career path?
I originally graduated from Salford University with a degree in architecture, however when I left, I worked for an architects practice in Manchester as an architectural technician, a year later I was offered the opportunity to move into designing and managing exhibitions. Since then, I have worked on a large range of projects across the world, from large-scale UK music festivals such as Parklife and V-Festival, Creamfields, to the PGA Golf tournament in Denmark, Dubai International Airshow and China’s international exhibition and fashion brand fair.
As much as I loved events management, I later decided that I wanted a less hectic lifestyle due to changes in my family life, and so I applied for a job at Leeds Beckett University. I also taught in Europe, ANGELL Business School in Germany, where I had a flying faculty position over six-year period. I continued my academic career at several UK universities Lecturer in Events Management, eventually joining the University of Salford in 2022.
Why did you choose the University of Salford?
I have travelled all over England, Europe and South Asia with my work, but Manchester is where my roots are, and where I always knew I wanted to settle. I chose Salford because I am an alumnus and have many fond memories of the University from my days as a student.
What’s the best thing about being an academic at Salford?
I love the freedom that we have as lecturers to be able to develop courses in a way that reflects our industry expertise. With my background in events, I can ensure students are developing the essential skills that align with current industry requirements and that will be most beneficial for their future careers.
Salford is such a great university because there’s a strong sense of community on campus – everyone is so friendly and always willing to help one another.
Can you tell us about any career highlights to date?
Working in industry, a key highlight for me was meeting Tony Wilson, who inspired the Hacienda and Factory music. That opportunity led me to work across many different areas of the creative industries.
As an academic, my favourite career highlight was taking managerial responsibility for an off-campus provision located in Wakefield on behalf of the University of Greater Manchester. There, I managed staff, developed programmes and modules that received outstanding student feedback and a significant increase in the National Student Survey results.
What’s your current research focused on?
My current research is titled, ‘Investigating Immersive Technology for Diverse Audiences: Enhancing Art Gallery Experiences with AR, VR, and Machine Learning at Tate Modern.’
Do you have any published papers that we can read?
I do, you can find it here:
- Sage Publication – Raj, R., Walters, P & Rashid, T (2017) Events Management Principles and Practice. 3rd edition.
And finally, the all-important question, where in Manchester or Salford is best to grab a coffee?
I prefer to make my coffee at home, using a special blend called Blue Mountain Coffee from Jamaica. It’s great!