S1 Ep8: Brother UK Cycling Podcast - Management Matters

Episode Eight of the Brother UK Cycling Podcast examines management. Co-hosts Timothy John and Phil Jones lead an insightful discussion. The guests are the managers of our three sponsored teams. We examine the challenges of leadership in sport and business. And we consider the rewards, too: personal, professional and sporting.

Simon Howes is the experienced manager of Team Brother UK-OnForm. Ian Watson, aka Coach Watto, manages the Brother UK-LDN squad. Matt Hallam is rider-manager at Brother UK-sponsored Crimson Performance-Orientation Marketing. The trio reflects on the demands of cycle team management. We hear how their challenges are magnified by systemic instability.

Phil describes the challenges cycling faces from the wider economy. He explains how the Covid lockdown will affect sponsorship budgets. And he again urges cycling to develop new revenue streams. Further, Phil offers parallels from his extensive study of leadership. His insights include Professor Nassim Nicholas Taleb’s “black swan” theory.

Tim questions the three managers on a range of topics. These include British Cycling’s plans for the National Road Series. He explores the potential benefits of app-based, on-demand television coverage. He asks the managers to describe character traits for leadership. And he explores the importance of maintaining a positive attitude.
 
Ian describes why “communication, communication, communication” is his lockdown mantra. Matt explains why resilience is essential in cycling and business. Simon shares his efforts to overcome the post-Brexit “90-day rule”. He describes the travel restrictions now faced by British athletes. And he reveals how he and British Cycling can help. 
 
Listen now to enjoy an honest, insightful and revealing discussion. Discover the parallels between business leadership and cycle team management. Hear Phil and our managers describe their strategies for success. Discover techniques for managing top performers and essential support staff. And learn about Brother UK’s support for its sponsored teams.