CONNECTING THE QUEEN CITY
JOIN US
Charlotte Sports+Business is a networking group connecting sports industry executives in the Queen City. Since founding in 2014, we’ve grown to a community of more than 2,500 professionals who either work in the sports business or aspire to work in the sports business. Our monthly events have attracted thousands of attendees to network and listen to some of the brightest minds in our industry share their knowledge and their personal stories.
This group was founded with a benevolent spirit, an attribute that is magnified by our shared belief that we can all benefit greatly by giving time and effort to get to know our fellow Charlotteans.
WHO WE ARE >>
Charlotte is home to more than 180 companies that work in the sports industry, and dozens more professional services companies that support our ongoing efforts. Our members and speakers come from all facets of the business. Media companies like ESPN, Sports Business Journal, FOX Sports and NBC Sports; prominent sponsors such as Wells Fargo, Duke Energy, Bank of America, Novant and Lowe's; leading agencies like Bespoke, 160 Over 90, Octagon, Red Moon and GMR; major events such as the Wells Fargo Championship, Duke's Mayo Bowl, Jumpman Classic and ACC Championship; top collegiate sports management programs; sports-based nonprofits; and, of course, our hometown Panthers, Hornets, Checkers, Knights, Charlotte FC and Independence.
Our presenters are some of the best and brightest minds in the sports business. We've heard from prominent executives like Bill Polian, John Swofford, Steve Lauletta, Nick Kelly, Susan O'Malley and Danny Morrison; marketers Jonathan Gibson, Jim Bailey, Jaime Cardenas and Tamera Green; media stalwarts Rob Temple, Abe Madkour and Marty Smith; property executives Jacqie McWilliams, Nick Kelly, Tera Black, Mike Hill; athlete/entrepreneurs like Steve Smith Sr. and many more.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND >>
Anyone looking to expand their network in Charlotte and learn more from some of the smartest people in our industry - a young professional looking to jumpstart a career, an experienced executive interested in making a career change, or perhaps you're interested in offering advice and assistance from your years of experience working in the sports business.
Bring a business card and come prepared.
Upcoming Events
In 2023 we're launching a new series of events including a morning speaker series at the NASCAR Hall of Fame, events targeted to young and seasoned executives, special nights with local sports teams and more. The schedule will be updated so check back to see what we'll be offering and how you can attend.
Speaker Series
We meet a few times a year for our morning Speaker Series at the NASCAR Hall of Fame from 7:30-9:00am. Events are free and open to the public but an RSVP is appreciated here.
February 22, 2023
Our panel of local sports business executives will discuss current events and the state of our industry. Our panel will feature:
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Checkers COO Tera Black
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Bespoke CEO Mike Boykin
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NBC Sports VP of sales Jim Donofrio
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SBJ publisher and executive editor Abe Madkour
Other 2023 Speaker Series target months
July
September
November
Networking Events
New this year, we're planning a number of networking events hosted by local organizations. Interested in hosting? Contact Wade Leaphart here.
May 13, 2023
Join us to to help coach, serve as a buddy for the YMCA Miracle League teams, work concessions, help announce the game and greeters. More details here.
Past events
January 11 - Dollar Beer at the Checkers
March 21 - Knights ballpark tour
UPCOMING EVENTS
For the last 15 years we've brought together the current and future leaders of the Charlotte sports industry. Events are free and open to the public.
JOB POSTINGS
Our members regularly share event listings, sports business jobs, news and other relevant content to our social pages. Click on the icons below to join our Facebook and LinkedIn groups.
STEERING COMMITTEE
Mike Boykin, Bespoke Sports & Entertainment
Wade Leaphart, Dick's Sporting Goods
Jon Show, Show Sports Media
Cover image courtesy of James Willamor