Putting the Fan First: Jacquie Ryan’s Story

In sports marketing, it all starts with the fan.

Those are the words that Jacquie Ryan lives by. As Vice President of Sponsorship Marketing and Global Philanthropy at Scotiabank, Jacquie leads one of the largest sponsorship and philanthropic portfolios in the country. Her team is also comprised of some of Canada’s top marketers and industry experts.

“Today’s fans have endless access to stories, data, and experiences. Helping to enable those experiences is a great opportunity and will change the face of traditional sports marketing to where the fan always comes first.”

It is no surprise that putting the fan in the heart of sports business is key, however going above and beyond this philosophy is what helped Jacquie transform the sponsorship strategy at Scotiabank. Under her leadership, Scotiabank’s sponsorship portfolio has propelled to the number one position among its competitors. Jacquie’s current portfolio includes leadership in Scotiabank’s hockey, arts, philanthropy, and community programs.

Jacquie’s career began in the ski industry in Banff, Alberta, followed by sport marketing positions at MacLaren Momentum and Lang and Associates. Prior to Scotiabank, she served as Head of Olympic Marketing for RBC, with responsibility for developing and implementing RBC’s 2010 Olympic and Paralympic program.

All of Jacquie’s career accomplishments would not have been possible without a strong commitment to hard work and networking, something she echoes to aspiring professionals.

“My advice for young professionals entering the industry is to work hard and create your own opportunities. It will pay dividends. Build, nurture, and grow your network. Of course, don’t forget to pay it forward. Finally, be authentic and stay true to yourself.”

In addition to being placed #8 on Yahoo Sports Top 25 most influential people in Canadian sport for 2015, Jacquie was also recognized as the George Brown 5 to Watch Alumni Achievement Award Winner.

“It was a great privilege and an honour, particularly because it is recognition from my peers and alumni.”

So, what does Jacquie do during her spare time?

You could probably find her outdoors with her family skiing, running, paddle boarding, or walking the dog.

Jacquie Ryan is the Vice President of Sponsorship Marketing and Global Philanthropy at Scotiabank. To learn more about Jacquie’s story, you can connect with her on LinkedIn.

Do you know someone who’s making a difference in sports business?

Nominate them for this year’s 5 to Watch, Canada’s Sports Business Awards by February 28. For more details or to nominate a sports business leader, please click here.