We welcomed Nicole Allison to discuss her career to date in 'Pudding Club'; this is an exciting lecture to inspire our sixth form, helping them get an insight into different career paths they can follow and give them advice for how to reach their goals all whilst enjoying a piece of cake.

Nicole Allison was unsure of what she wanted to do with her life, but knew that she wanted to make a change in a male-dominated world. Though it was suggested that Nicole pursue a career as a PE teacher, she felt it wasn't the right path for her. She chose to study European studies and German at Aston University instead, and then moved to Germany for a year in order to gain real-world experience during her course. After living in Germany, she quickly learned more about business and international relations. When Nicole finished university, a job offer came up as translator; however Nicole decided against this path as it did not fuel her passion. Instead she chose to start working as Sports assistant leading girls' football at The Chase School; eventually becoming qualified as a football coach and working at Kidderminster Harriers. Subsequently Nicole worked for the marketing department of a soccer franchise until she decided to study for a Masters in Sports Management and Business at Birkbeck College London, giving Nicole insight into the world of football which has been invaluable for her career choices along the way.

Nicole has amassed a wealth of experience in the football industry. In an ambitious and driven approach to her career, Nicole wrote letters to various sports clubs in order to gain experience before embarking on her Masters. Nicole was rewarded for her hard work and was offered a job as a research assistant at Kantar Sport. This opportunity was an important step Nicole took towards building an impressive career; she went on to work for the English Football League (EFL) in a research role that combined marketing, digital, advertising and sponsorship. Nicole then headed up a team in the Sports department for YouGov before taking on the challenge of working with Women's Football team Tottenham Hotspur in 2015. During this time Nicole was instrumental in helping to develop the necessary facilities that were lacking; there wasn't even a female changing room at the club until Nicole fought for it. Showing great entrepreneurial spirit, Nicole then started her own business referred to as NA Sport. She now works as a sports agent and provides teaching and consultancy services with clients such as Helen Ward, Megan Wynn and Jane Ludlow alongside offering broadcasting opportunities abroad when Nicole recently travelled to Saudi Arabia with the purpose of establishing their Women's Football strategy for their league.

Nicole Allison has made a powerful contribution to football, by creating her own independent women's football club in Worcester City. She is determined to make sure that women are visible in the sport, and that everyone can benefit from opportunities which may not have been available before. She wants to ensure her legacy in the world of football, by giving girls and women the accessible pathways they need to navigate their careers- something we know is far from straightforward. Nicole encourages all young footballers to do what they love, enjoy the journey and embrace failure!