A new programme has been launched to help professional athletes transition into careers within the growing data centre sector.
Developed in collaboration between BCS and JLB Search, the Athlete Career Transition Programme offers resources and guidance for ex-athletes seeking roles in the data centre industry. The initiative will be spearheaded by former England rugby player and international referee Holly Wood.
The programme aims to address the shortage of skilled professionals in the data centre industry, especially with regard to the burgeoning demand for AI the sector is facing.
Through the Athlete Career Transition Programme, former athletes will be guided into full-time positions across various business functions at BCS. Each participant will received personalised skills development support, helping them transition smoothly into their new roles.
Athletes who have joined BCS through the programme include former England rugby player Will Edwards, now working in cost management; Yasmin Campbell, a former Team GB fencer now in business operations; Egli Kaja, a professional footballer turned Project Manager; and Mahima Attreya, an international swimmer who has joined the HR team.
This initiative follows BCS’s existing apprentice and graduate schemes as part of its commitment to developing a skilled workforce for the digital infrastructure sector.
Jim Hart, CEO at BCS said, “This unique programme reflects our lateral thinking and determination to find the next generation of senior managers for our fast-growing sector. It has really opened our eyes to this untapped pool of incredible talent which we believe has a unique skillset which enables them to thrive in business settings, such as teamwork, leadership, adaptability, resilience and discipline. We will be teaming successful candidates with the right mentors from within our business to nurture and develop them to create lasting, impactful careers.”
Holly Wood, who is a Consultant at JLB Search, added, “This programme is close to my heart as I have seen first-hand the challenges that athletes face when moving from the world of elite sport to new professional arenas. We have had an incredible response to this programme with over 1,200 applications in the first three months alone.
“BCS is absolutely the right choice of partner for us due to our shared values of integrity, diversity, and a people-first approach. Both organisations believe in the power of talent transformation, and together we will help athletes harness their unique qualities and apply them to a new career. The collaboration reflects our dedication to empowering individuals to achieve their full potential in life after sport.”
