By Brandon Ruth
Posted November, 2018
I’m the logistics manager for the Atlanta Falcons. The best part of my job is that I am blessed to be able to work with the best players, coaches and staff in all of sports. You become one big family that transcends what happens on the football field. It doesn’t even feel like I go to work each day. It is like waking to see your family day in and day out.
While I was still a student at the University of South Carolina, I interned with the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream in 2009 in the Game Operations department. In 2010, I obtained an internship with Center Stage Theater in the venue operations and booking department.
From Intern to Leader
I graduated from UofSC in May 2011 with a Bachelor of Science in Sport and Entertainment Management, and accepted an internship with the Falcons as the event marketing assistant.
After completing my internship with the Falcons, I was offered a full-time position with the Atlanta Dream as the manager of game operations.
In that role, I was responsible for producing the live in-game experience, managing all game day talent, acting as the team’s liaison with Philips Arena and coordinating the team’s schedule directly with the WNBA.
After serving in this position for one year, I accepted an opportunity to return to the Falcons on a full-time basis as event manager. I oversaw the execution of events such as Atlanta Falcons Training Camp, Back to Football 5K Race, Atlanta Falcons Draft Party, Grill with the Falcons, Falcons Landing on game days and any other Falcon-related event.
Taking the Leap
In 2016, I had the opportunity to shift from the business side to the football operations side as I accepted a position as the logistics manager.
In that role, I manage all aspects of team travel and home game operations. I mainly oversee the team hotel booking, charter contracts, buses, police escorts and trucking for all road games.
I also oversee the team hotel for home games, post-game meals, postseason team facility upgrades, training camp operations and all team-related travel billing. I collaborate with other football operations departments (i.e. video, equipment, athletic training and PR) to provide logistical support throughout training camp and during all home and road games.
I would advise current students to seek out internships and take advantage of all the opportunities that come your way. The hard work will pay off in the future.
The Career Journey story series shares a glimpse into the dynamic jobs of our alumni, how they got to where they are today, and their advice for the next generation — in their own words. Share your career journey story by emailing hrsmcomm@mailbox.sc.edu.