Careers rarely follow a straight line; Find out how our experienced panel excelled and utilised the opportunities available to them.

Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring professionals from Southampton Football Club and Saints Foundation who have followed a variety of career paths, from volunteering and graduate employment through to senior leadership roles.

Our speakers will share their experiences of building their careers, the opportunities they have taken, and the lessons they have learned along the way. Whether you already have a clear career plan or are still exploring your options, this session will provide valuable insights into career development, progression and making the most of opportunities.

Topics will include:

Transitioning from university into employment

Building confidence and professional networks

Creating opportunities through volunteering and work experience

Developing transferable skills

Career progression and leadership

Balancing multiple roles and career interests

Navigating career decisions and new opportunities

Insights into careers within a large and successful organisation

The session will conclude with a Q&A panel and networking opportunity, giving students the chance to connect directly with the speakers and gain advice relevant to their own career aspirations.

Open to students from all courses.

Meet the Panel:

Andy Martino

Football Development Manager, Southampton Football Club

Andy joined Southampton Football Club in 1999 as an Academy Coach and now leads the club’s global coaching programmes. Working with teams and coaches around the world, Andy helps develop players and coaches while sharing the Southampton approach to football development. During his career he has worked with players including Luke Shaw, Adam Lallana, James Ward-Prowse and Theo Walcott. Andy will share lessons on leadership, personal development and building a rewarding long-term career.

Hannah Summers

C&E Account Executive, Southampton Football Club

Hannah began working with Southampton Football Club in a casual matchday role in 2014 before progressing into a permanent position within the events team. She now supports the delivery of events that generate non-matchday revenue for the club. Alongside her role at Southampton FC, Hannah also works across a variety of freelance projects, including wedding planning and RUNFEST events. Hannah will discuss career progression, building a portfolio career and creating opportunities across different sectors.

Tocker Tocknell

Premier League Kicks Youth Engagement Officer, Saints Foundation

A recent Solent University graduate, Tocker volunteered with Saints Foundation while studying before successfully securing a full-time role after graduation. He will share his experience of transitioning from university into employment, the value of volunteering and how early career experiences can help create future opportunities.

Chloe Wakeling

Head of Women’s Football, Southampton Football Club

Chloe recently joined Southampton Football Club to lead the women’s football programme, overseeing the day-to-day running of the team. Prior to joining Southampton, Chloe worked within the Women’s Super League and held roles with Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and The FA, including involvement with UEFA Women’s EURO 2022. Chloe will discuss leadership, career progression, embracing new opportunities throughout her career.

Tom Barrett

Head of Partnerships, Southampton Football Club

Tom has worked for Southampton Football Club for more than 20 years, having started his journey as an Academy player. Today he leads the Partnerships team, managing commercial relationships and developing new business opportunities that help drive growth and revenue for the club. Tom will share insights into career progression, relationship building and developing a successful career within a large organisation.

Description supplied by the event organiser.