Jesse Lovejoy

Director at 49ers, EDU & Managing Partner, at EDU Academy

Best pitch presenter you’ve ever seen

It wasn’t a pitch exactly but Simon Sinek. Incomparable control of a room.

Best sports marketing campaign (that wasn’t yours)

I’m probably dating myself by saying this but “Bo Knows” by Nike. If it’s recent, anything featuring USWNT soccer, I absolutely love that team.

Best agency (that isn’t yours)

Don’t really work that much with agencies but if I have to pick one I guess Wasserman

Best young industry talent

49ers EDU Senior Manager Sofy Navarro

Best sporting event attended

Hmm. Probably the Carrier Classic – first basketball game played on an active US Aircraft Carrier. North Carolina vs. Michigan State.

Best sporting event on TV

SF Giants series-clinching win vs. Philadelphia in the NLCS in 2010.

Best brand ambassador

Shaq and it’s not close. He makes you love him no matter what he’s pitching.

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Best industry event or conference

Very difficult to choose. I just completed Global Sports Week in Paris and it was outstanding.

Best influence on your career

Keena Turner

Best dinner companions (min 4, max 6)

My wife, Jimmy Fallon, Neil De Grasse Tyson, Michelle & Barack Obama, Pharrell

Best job in the sports biz

Mine!

Best professional regret

Waiting so long to get into teaching

Best skill you most covet

Building things with my hands

Best trait you admire in others

A good attitude

Best overrated virtue

“Grinding”

Best ambition

Be present

Best film containing a scene depicting the sports business

Major League

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Best book recommendation 

All time: On the Road. Recently: The Dog Stars

Best bar or pub

Any will do

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Best restaurant

Sushi Garden in Soquel, California

Best holiday resort

Anywhere in Hawaii

Best box set

Marley