Vipul Londhe, a 2023 Loughborough London alumni in Sport Marketing, has been recognised in the International Sports Convention (ISC) 30 Under Thirty Awards for his work and contribution to the sports industry. He shares insights into his journey, challenges, and what success means to him today.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the sports industry, and how has your journey evolved?

Growing up in India, cricket wasn’t just a sport—it was part of our cultural fabric. Like many kids, I dreamed of playing professionally. But in the early 2000s, football began to gain serious traction in India. What started as a passing interest quickly became a deep passion. I played, I coached, and I immersed myself in the game. Eventually, I realised that while I might not make it as a professional athlete, there was a whole world off the pitch that fascinated me just as much.

How did your time at Loughborough London help prepare you for a career in the sports industry?

A major milestone was moving to the UK to pursue my master’s at Loughborough University London. It was a dream come true and gave me the academic foundation and industry exposure I needed. Since then, I’ve worked in sports marketing agencies, led commercial operations for a women’s football club, and now head partnerships and sales at Lucid.

What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?

Breaking into the sports industry is challenging enough—but doing it internationally adds another layer of complexity. One of the biggest hurdles I faced was the lack of transparency. There’s no clear playbook for how to get your foot in the door, especially in a market like the UK where networks and insider knowledge often matter more than qualifications.

Mentorship was also a game-changer. I actively sought out people who could offer not just contacts, but real guidance—people who could challenge my thinking and help me grow.

What does this recognition represent for you on a personal level, especially considering the risks and sacrifices you’ve made along the way?

On a personal level, it’s incredibly meaningful. I come from a background where academic achievement was prioritised, but taking risks wasn’t always encouraged. Choosing to leave that comfort zone, move to a new country, and pursue a dream without a safety net was a huge leap. There were sacrifices—being away from family and friends, facing uncertainty—but I stayed focused on the bigger picture.

Professionally, the impact has been transformative. It’s opened doors, expanded my network, and brought me into conversations I once only dreamed of. It’s also given me a platform to influence how sport is marketed, monetised, and experienced. More than anything, it’s a reminder that consistency, purpose, and integrity do pay off—even if the results take time to show.

How does mentorship and community-building fit into your vision for the future of the industry?

Outside of my day job, Future in Sports remains a big part of my mission. I want to continue mentoring and supporting professionals trying to break into the UK sports industry. Having walked that path myself, I know how isolating and confusing it can be. Through mentorship, insights, and community-building, we’re making that journey more accessible for the next generation.

Ultimately, my ambition is twofold: to lead with impact and to leave the industry better than I found it. I don’t just want to be part of the game—I want to help change it.

A big congratulations to Vipul for his achievement!

To learn more about Vipul’s experience at Loughborough University London, you can read his alumni profile here.