Get To Know: Genna Opatut

Almost a year has past since we first met Genna Opatut and now she finally joins EngageRM as our new Pre-Sales Engineer in the US. Based out of Washington D.C and a lifelong sports fan, Genna is ready to get stuck in and master our platform following an impressive career in the industry.   

  

Was sport always a big factor in your life and were you a player or observer?   

GO: I’ve always been an athletic and into sports, I was a complete tomboy growing up. I played soccer all my life and I transferred to Clemson University which is known for its sporting culture. It was at Clemson that I decided to pursue a career in sports and work in the industry in some capacity.   

  

You’re coming to the Get Engaged! Staff Conference in May, will this be your first time in Australia?   

GO: Yes! I’m so excited to come. I’m based in Washington D.C. and our winter this year has been harsh so I’m excited for some warmer weather. Also, the opportunity to meet everyone from all over the world is really great.  

  

You mentioned that your time at Clemson was instrumental in your decision to work in the sports industry, what has your path looked like?  

GO: After I graduated, I realised if I wanted to work in the industry, I should probably study it. That’s how I ended up at Georgetown completing my masters in sports, the program was great, and I made many new connections there that now cover every sports team in D.C.  

  

What led to your role at NBC?  

GO: That was my first job after completing my masters and working there was a great experience. All the major sporting events are broadcast through NBC and watching everyone work to deliver these events and getting to go to quite a few games was so much fun.   

  

How did you migrate to the data and tech side of the industry from broadcasting?  

GO: All of my roles utilised some form of technology and software, but my previous job propelled me into the area because I managed their entire database and taught employees how to use it. I enjoyed being the expert and helping others learn how to use the platform to improve our outcomes and I quickly fell in love with sports technology. In my current role, I’ll be delivering product demonstrations which brings everything together and helps our clients learn the best ways they can use the platform.   

  

I’ve heard it’s been a long process to bring you on board, how did you first find out about EngageRM?   

GO: Way back in May 2021 I applied for a role, but it ended up not being the right match. I met both Ned Coten (CEO) and Nick Zanotto (VP North America Development) during the process, and we all agreed to stay in touch to see if anything would come up in the future, and it did! Throughout the year Ned and I constantly checked in and in March I saw banner in Ned’s email mentioning that EngageRM were hiring, and I reached out. The rest, they say, is history!  

  

Finally, what excites you about your new role?  

GO: So many things! In my previous role, I felt like I was scratching the surface of multiple elements in the process of implementation and in my new role I get to narrow down on the pre-sales aspect. Also, I’ve always wanted to learn a product that isn’t as mainstream and teach people about this whole new system that they wouldn’t have known about or interacted with before. The company culture from the outside looks awesome, and I’m ready to meet everyone and get stuck into work!