Feature

Brand Manager of the Week: Chris Hayler

Commercial and marketing manager, Southampton FC

Describe yourself in three words.

Just do it.

What would you be if you weren't a brand manager?

A man with a van - no job too small.

What was your first job?

Dish-washer at a pub, though my first serious job was as a marketing executive at Virgin Atlantic.

How did you get your first job?

Understanding and researching the business always helps. I see it so many times in my role, where applicants think naming a few footballers will get them a job.

What was your finest hour?

This is slightly controversial as I now work at the club's arch-rival, but lifting the FA Cup with Harry Redknapp, while working for Portsmouth stands out. Having organised the parade where 250,000 fans turned out, this was a great end to a memorable day.

If you were a brand, what would you be and why?

Facebook - a brand that has rewritten the rule book.

What is your favourite pub?

The Blue Bell, Emsworth, Hampshire, a quintessentially English pub with good beer and good cheer.

What's your favourite holiday destination?

Las Vegas - I had an extreme trip there this year and was blown away.

If you could get tickets to any event, what would it be?

The World Cup final, but only if England were in it.

If you had three wishes, what would they be?

To lift the World Cup for England, ultimate knowledge and ability, and to time travel.

What headline would you most like to read in Marketing?

'Apple signs non-commercial shirt deal with Manchester United'. These are two huge brands that should work together.