Introduction:
Danielle Cantor Jeweler, Partner and Executive Vice President at FAME, has shattered barriers in the male-dominated field of sports talent management. Her journey to success is a testament to determination, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to her clients. In this interview, Danielle shares insights into her professional journey, her company’s mission and vision, and the impact she’s had on the sports talent management niche.
Journey to Success:
Danielle’s career began with a passion for the sports industry, though she initially considered a career in finance or marketing. She joined SFX Sports Group as an unpaid intern but quickly realized her calling in the business side of professional sports. Over the years, she rose from Manager to Director to Vice President of Basketball Marketing.
In 2007, SFX was acquired by Live Nation, and the sports-related business underwent restructuring. It was during this time that Danielle partnered with David Falk to relaunch FAME as an ultra-boutique sports agency. Her role as an NBA Certified Agent evolved naturally over her 23-year career, driven by her passion and commitment to her clients.
FAME’s Mission and Vision:
FAME’s vision, under David Falk’s leadership and Danielle’s partnership, is to offer highly personalized, individualized, and selective services to their clients. They focus on quality over quantity, limiting the number of NBA clients to provide deep, impactful relationships. FAME aims to empower athletes as brands, guiding them beyond their playing contracts to make a lasting impact.
Impact on Sports Talent Management:
Danielle’s presence as one of the few women in sports talent management is inspiring. She actively mentors women in the sports business, teaches classes in Collective Bargaining, salary cap, and negotiations, and works to open doors for other women in the industry. Her goal is to amplify the voices of women and champion their success collectively.
Future Goals:
Danielle envisions continued growth and innovation in her career. FAME has expanded its business by launching a venture arm, investing in early-stage companies related to professional sports. Danielle is also involved in mentoring, speaking engagements, teaching, and advisory roles. She constantly pushes herself and her team to reach new heights.
Advice to Budding Entrepreneurs:
For aspiring entrepreneurs in the sports industry, Danielle emphasizes the need to differentiate yourself and bring unique value to the table. Become an expert in a specific area and leverage your network to make connections. Engage passionately when talking to people and focus on building personal relationships, as the best opportunities often arise unexpectedly. In conclusion, Danielle Cantor Jeweler’s journey in sports talent management serves as an inspiration to women and entrepreneurs alike. Her dedication to empowering athletes and championing women in the industry demonstrates the power of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to making a lasting impact.