Rob Wilson
Director of Executive Education @Vsi Executive Education
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WORK HISTORY
Director of Executive Education @Vsi Executive Education
Manchester, GB
Pioneering tomorrow’s leaders in sport.
ABOUT ROB WILSON
Dean | Professor of Applied Sport Finance | Strategic AdviserWith more than 25 years in higher education and an international reputation as a leading authority on the business and finance of sport, I operate at the intersection of academic leadership, subject scholarship, and applied industry impact.Leadership in Higher EducationAs Dean at University Campus of Football Business (UCFB), I provide strategic leadership across academic provision, people, partnerships, and performance. My role focuses on building high-quality, industry-connected education that develops the next generation of leaders for the global sport sector.I lead multidisciplinary teams across teaching, research, and executive education, ensuring strong governance, financial sustainability, and an outstanding student experience. Previously, I directed a £20m academic department of 80+ staff and 1,600 students, with portfolio responsibility spanning strategy, quality assurance, international partnerships, and organisational development.My leadership philosophy centres on clarity of purpose, commercial awareness, and translating strategy into action, aligning academic excellence with real-world relevance.Thought Leadership in Sport FinanceAlongside my executive leadership, I remain an active scholar and commentator on sport economics, finance, and governance, with particular expertise in football and professional sport systems.I have authored seven books and numerous peer-reviewed publications, and regularly advise governing bodies, leagues, and investors on financial sustainability, regulation, and strategic growth. My insights are frequently featured across BBC, Sky Sports, ESPN, Al Jazeera, the Financial Times, The Economist and the Wall Street Journal. I act as a board advisor and provide expert testimony. Strategic Advisory & Industry EngagementThrough Play It Forward Consulting Ltd, I support clubs, governing bodies, investors, and sport-tech ventures with executive education, financial strategy, and independent advisory services. My work bridges academia and practice, helping organisations make better strategic and financial decisions.I’m always open to conversations around:• Academic leadership and partnerships• Executive education and leadership development• Sport finance, governance, and strategy• Consultancy, advisory, and media commentaryFor research or media commentary:@ProfRob_WilsonFor collaboration or consultancy: feel free to connect or message directly
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