Alvin Cheung
Partnership Manager, SAS Sport
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation & Bachelor of Business in Management conjoint programmes
One of the greatest strengths of AUT’s sports degree is its focus on industry engagement and practical experience, says Alvin Cheung.
“Throughout my degree, I had opportunities to connect with professionals and organisations across the sport sector. My workplace experience was particularly valuable. I completed mine with the Northern Football Federation (now Northern Region Football), working within the competitions team. For my final project, I explored ethnic engagement and identified opportunities to better connect with and support diverse communities participating in football across the region.
“The experience enabled me to apply what I had learnt in the classroom to a real-world challenge while building meaningful industry relationships. Those connections led directly to my first full-time role after graduation and the beginning of a seven-year career in sport, specialising in ethnic engagement, diversity and inclusion, an area I remain deeply passionate about. I also enjoyed the entrepreneurial courses I completed later in my degree. They challenged me to think creatively and showed me how to turn ideas into practical solutions.”
As an international student from Hong Kong, he says he appreciated AUT’s supportive learning environment.
“One of the things I valued most about AUT was how welcoming and inclusive the community was. The support available helped me quickly feel like I belonged, which inspired me to become a student ambassador and help other new students have a positive transition into university life. In addition to my studies, I was also proud to be named the 2017 AUT football club person of the year.”
Mixing sport and sales
Now working as a partnership manager for New Zealand-based apparel manufacturer and retailer SAS Sport, Alvin loves having a role that mixes sport and sales.
“After spending seven years working in the sport sector, I was ready for a new challenge. My role at SAS Sport provided the perfect opportunity to transition into a corporate sales environment while continuing to work closely with schools and sporting organisations. What I enjoy most is the variety. Every day presents new challenges, opportunities and conversations. The role requires problem-solving, relationship management and quick decision-making, which keeps the work engaging and allows me to continue developing both professionally and personally.”
He values that his degree emphasised the importance of building and maintaining connections, a skill he still uses in his career today.
“AUT taught me that some of the most valuable opportunities come through the relationships you build along the way. Whether it was fellow students, lecturers, industry partners or support staff, the people I met during my time at AUT have had a lasting impact on both my personal and professional journey. Many of those connections continue to influence my career today, and they reinforced the importance of staying connected, being open to opportunities and investing in your network.”
Advice for other students
Alvin’s advice for other students is simple: make the most of every opportunity to connect with people.
“AUT is a diverse and collaborative environment filled with students, academics and industry professionals from a wide range of backgrounds. Some of the most valuable learning experiences happen outside the classroom through conversations, group projects and networking opportunities.”
He also has some great guidance for those who are interested in a career in his field.
“Take time to reflect on your goals and regularly assess where you’re heading. Understanding your strengths, interests and values will help you make informed decisions and adapt as opportunities arise. Career paths are rarely linear, so stay open-minded, embrace challenges and continue learning throughout your journey.”
