Portas Consulting strengthen team with appointment of Global Project Manager.
Overview
Portas Consulting is a leading global consultancy dedicated solely to sport, working with international federations, leagues, clubs and investors. The hire formed part of a wider effort to strengthen delivery capability and further evolve the team’s blend of skills and experience.
Challenge
Portas Consulting looked to strengthen their team with the appointment of a Global Project Manager with top-tier strategy experience and a deep understanding of the sports industry. The role required an individual capable of leading complex projects, managing senior stakeholder relationships, and contributing to global business growth.
Alongside cultural alignment, the brief required a clearly defined combination of experience and capability. Candidates needed a minimum of five years’ experience within a top-tier strategy consultancy or a respected sports organisation, alongside a proven track record of high performance, strong leadership, and exceptional problem-solving ability.
The role also required excellent communication skills, a genuine interest in sport, and the flexibility to operate across global markets.
Solution
Harry Trussler led the search, building on an established relationship with Portas Consulting and a strong understanding of their culture and expectations.
The process began with a detailed and thorough market mapping exercise, identifying talent across global strategy consultancies, sports organisations, and investment environments. Over 200 candidates were approached, focusing on individuals with the right balance of consulting pedigree, sector exposure, and long-term motivation to work within sport.
A structured headhunting and screening approach ensured that candidates were assessed not only on technical capability, but also on values, communication style, and resilience to navigate a rigorous interview process.
“Portas is a firm we know well and respect deeply. Their team has a real drive to do things that matter in sport, so it is essential that any candidate reflects that ambition.”
Harry Trussler, Executives in Sport Group
Outcome
Following a comprehensive and collaborative process, Portas Consulting successfully appointed a Global Project Manager aligned to both the firm’s culture and strategic ambitions.
The search engaged a broad and highly targeted talent pool, with over 200 candidates approached and 60 screened in detail. This resulted in a focused shortlist of 12 high-quality candidates, with two progressing through to final interview following a rigorous 7 stage assessment process.
Completed over an 18-week period, the process delivered a strong outcome, enabling informed decision-making and ensuring long-term fit. The successful candidate brought global strategy experience, strong leadership capability, and a clear personal motivation to contribute to the sports industry
Building a winning strategy starts with the right people!
If your organisation is looking to strengthen its strategic team, speak to Harry Trussler at Executives in Sport Group – ht@eisg.co