By Ashley Miller
Nature of the Work: Sports managers coordinate and plan business-related aspects of the organization and keep things running smoothly. They control the team's budget and, in the process, deal with all aspects of their organization, as every expenditure crosses their desk -- no matter how trifling. While some aspects of the job may closely resemble the duties of an office manager, sports managers also oversee player contracts and signings, and they decide who to draft.
During their organization's season, managers may find themselves working seven days a week as they deal with running a team. Managers wear many hats throughout the day, especially in smaller, usually minor-league organizations where support staff may not exist at all. In a typical day a manager may make travel arrangements when the team travels, consent to the hiring of a new janitor and meet with the owner over finances.
General managers are also responsible for bringing money into their organization, by getting fans into stadiums, selling advertising space -- whatever it takes. They must continually think of new, fresh ways to generate income for the team.
In the off-season, managers sign new players and make trades as they see fit. In the end, the sports manager is ultimately responsible for every player signed. Each year, managers of a professional team draft and sign players that address a need in the roster and fit the team's budget.
Managers must delicately conduct business to please the owner while keeping players relatively happy. Even small details are important, and sports managers need to be detail-oriented and have the ability to multitask as they operate in often hectic situations. Cutbacks, trades and salaries all come under public scrutiny and general managers might find themselves in press-conferences explaining their actions to the media. Throughout their dealings managers constantly draw upon their fiscal and business savvy and utilize their sports knowledge to make the best decisions for their organization.
Education and Training: While there isn't a single accepted route to a general managing position, most work their way up through the lower ranks. The general manger is often promoted from a head coaching or head scouting position. Good candidates are business savvy, have extensive experience in sports and usually have spent some time playing or coaching. Some have a bachelor's degree in business, management or sports-related field. Managers should be familiar with accounting, contract law, economics and the governing rules of their sport.
Job Outlook: As professional leagues continue to expand, more teams will exist to manage. However, eager applicants will continue to outnumber available positions, and competition will remain fierce.
Salary Range: $22,000 to $1.5 million, depending upon the team's level of play