Football fan and WelTec graduate takes on Events Manager role at Wellington Phoenix

The Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec) has advised of its role in helping Graeme Davidson, a self-described football fanatic, secure the role of Events Manager for the Wellington Phoenix.

Newly appointed to the role, Davidson, who has played ‘the lovely game’ since he was four, can’t think of a better job where he can put his passion for the game into practice on a daily basis.

Davidson’s placement follows a recent enquiry, which came into WelTec’s jobs brokers, as a result of which hewas put forward for the job.

As Davidson explains “I was looking to take the next step in my career and the role with the Phoenix represented an unbelievable opportunity.”

Since graduating with an events management qualification through WelTec, Davidson has worked on a number of exciting projects. An initial internship with the FIFA Under 20s World Cup, which was part of the events management qualification, led to a contract role as catering coordinator during the tournament.

He then worked for the SPCA in Wellington promoting and expanding their events function centre. He recalls “this was a very rewarding role working for a great charity. I feel I made a great contribution to the SPCA increasing events driven revenue three-fold over two-and-a-half years.”

Relishing his new position, Davidson is busy in the lead up to the Phoenix’s season launch on the evening of 13th September, pre-season games, five dinners and functions with the first game of the season on 21st October at Westpac Stadium.

A community day at Waitangi Park on 16th September is planned which will be a fun day for families and lots of football activities.

His role will also see him travel with the team to all the New Zealand-based games.

Davidson explains “there’s a lot to look forward to this season with the Phoenix. There are 14 ‘home’ games with 11 in Wellington. I can’t wait to see the Yellow Fever fans out in force supporting our team to victory.

“I’ve been a huge fan of football my whole life. I played as a junior right through to seniors and I’m still playing.

“It’s incredible to be able to achieve what is literally my dream job. Without my events management qualification through WelTec I wouldn’t be where I am today, that’s a certainty. The skills I gained through study and practical application were vital. Getting to know the industry through tutor contacts also contributed to my career taking off.”