Claire Czerniuk
Age: 34
New title, organization: Director of game presentation, entertainment and field marketing at the New York Red Bulls
Previous title, organization: Game presentation consultant (Athletes Unlimited, XFL, NBA, PWHL)
Career background: Began in sports with the New York Liberty and eventually grew into the manager of event presentation role with the New York Knicks. Served as game presentation leader with the Connecticut Sun and Detroit Pistons. Most recently, produced games for Athletes Unlimited, the XFL and Golden State Warriors.
First job: Dance instructor
Resides: Brooklyn, N.Y.
Contact information for networking: www.linkedin.com/in/claire-czerniuk
Since settling into your role, what has emerged as your biggest priorities and areas of focus?
Re-imagining the fan experience for the New York Red Bulls “from street to seat,” beginning pregame at the BULLevard fan zone (located outside of Red Bull Arena), to all immersive fan touch-points during the match. Approaching game presentation with a “360 strategy” and delivering on every detail of the fan experience. A new area of focus for me is the oversight of two of the club’s supporter groups, Viking Army and Empire Supporters Club.
What’s been your favorite promotion/activation/etc. that you’ve implemented so far?
Implementing a unique prematch show open for each of our 17 home matches this season that integrates our new lighting system and special effects.
What is the biggest risk you’ve taken in your career?
Stepping out of my comfort zone as a performer/entertainer and believing in myself to pursue a career in sports entertainment as a producer in a niche role within a male-dominated industry.
What career advice do you have for a young person or student wanting to work in sports business?
Be a sponge and take any opportunity to explore all areas of the business. Learning the things you don’t like is just as important as finding the areas you enjoy.
What sports business story are you watching most closely today?
The popularity of women’s sports is rising and the recognition of female leaders pushing them forward within the industry. Women’s sports are continuing to sell out arenas and break records.
