League of talent behind
the scenes

There’s no such thing as a typical day’s work at the Brisbane Broncos, according to the club’s Commercial Operations Assistant Laura Watterston.

“It’s definitely not a nine-to-five job. There’s so much going on away from the field that spectators don’t see,” she said.

“Game day is always exciting and it has been an eye-opening experience to see how much work goes on behind the scenes.

“It’s basically coordinating an event for more than 30,000 people, but it doesn’t just happen. We look after everything from signage and sponsorship plazas to what’s happening on the big screen and live entertainment.”

“Game day is always exciting and it has been an eye-opening experience to see how much work goes on behind the scenes."

Brisbane Broncos Commercial Operations Assistant Laura Watterston

Watterston (Bachelor of Communication/Bachelor of Arts ’16) began a full-time role at the Broncos in January this year, after impressing the club’s commercial operations team during an internship last NRL season while studying at UQ.

The Broncos and UQ announced a landmark partnership in April 2015, recognising a shared dedication to shaping future leaders and a commitment to excellence. The partnership has many levels, including opportunities for undergraduate student placements and access to elite athletes for higher degree by research student projects.

Watterston (pictured) was the club’s first intern in commercial operations as part of the partnership.

Watch a video from behind the scenes at a Brisbane Broncos match. Video courtesy of the Brisbane Broncos.

“I majored in public relations at UQ and was always convinced I wanted a career in that space. But I really enjoy working within a large sporting organisation and feel I am better suited to this work,” she said.

“I believe that being involved in many parts of the organisation during my internship helped to both clarify what I wanted to do and prepare me for a full-time role.

“During my internship I was working with sponsors, helping run events and assisting with administration tasks leading up to the 12 home games during the season.”

Broncos Match Experience Manager Eloise Kelly said it was important that new employees understood the pace and demands of a sports organisation, as well as the dynamics and culture of the club.

“During her internship, Laura got to know everyone and saw how the organisation ran. When the full-time position became available, we knew she was suited to the role and could hit the ground running,” Kelly said.

“Laura is in a good position because she is able to see a snapshot of everything that is happening at the club in a range of areas.

“Having access to passionate and knowledgeable students is one of the major benefits of a partnership like this.”

For more information about UQ's partnership with the Brisbane Broncos, visit ChangeMakers magazine.