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After a highly successful inaugural event, The D Word Conference is back and will be hosted by BT Sport at their studios at the Queen Elizabeth Park, Stratford.

This second instalment on diversity, The D Word2, will take place on Monday, 24th October and will be free of charge to attend. Funded by FARE, European football’s anti-discrimination and equality network, and Refresh Films.

The conference is part of the FARE Action Weeks, which unite supporters, clubs, ethnic minorities and communities affected by discrimination across the continent in a concerted effort to make discrimination a thing of the past.

The D Word2 will build upon the foundation created in September 2014, where over 140 people flocked to the inaugural event at the London College of Communication. Located in one of the most multi-cultural parts of the capital, the delegates came to lend their voices to what proved to be an inspiring and challenging inaugural debate on this issue.

The aim of this second conference is to review progress since the first D Word, seek further advice and positive solutions, and set out targets for the sports media – to put diversity firmly on the agenda for the industry’s key decision makers.

Leon Mann, founder of BCOMS and co-owner of Refresh Films, said: “BCOMS is delighted to be delivering our second D Word conference at the BT Sport studios. It is a fantastic venue to discuss, debate and ultimately come up with practical ways to help ensure the sports media becomes more diverse.

“We have some tremendous speakers lined up for the conference and the day will offer an unrivalled networking opportunity for those wanting to progress in the industry or get a foot in the door to begin their career in the sports media.

“The conference is free and we urge people to sign up early as there was a huge demand for the first D Word.”

Following the event, a D Word2 guide to delivering diversity in the sports media will be circulated across the sports and media industries. The guide will be based on ideas and contributions generated from the conference and put together by BCOMS – The Black Collective of Media in Sport – who aim to be the first port of call both for black professionals in the sports media and talented newcomers looking to develop their careers.

If you would like to attend this important conference, please get your ticket here or e-mail info@bcoms.co if you have any questions.

The EFL have introduced a ground breaking recruitment process

This is the most important football season for black people in the game – present and future – but very few may realise it.

This season the English Football League (EFL) have introduced groundbreaking measures to address the exclusion and under representation of BAME coaches at the elite level of the game. An equivalent of the NFL’s Rooney Rule has been put in place over a three year trial period – where at least one BAME person must be interviewed as part of recruitment processes at EFL clubs.

The introduction of the new measures is a bold step and means every single EFL club must adopt a Rooney Rule system for any coaching vacancy at academy level. While at first team level ten EFL clubs will pilot the same system.

The latest report by the Sports People’s Think Tank, of which I’m a founding member, outlined that there were just 23 BAME coaches across the 552 senior coaching positions in professional football in 2015. So there is a desperate need for the positive action put in place.

But it would be wrong to sit back and think this will solve the problem. It will only work if the football industry is committed to wanting it to succeed, and if black communities and BAME people trust it will be delivered properly and give it a chance.

My concern is that given the initial huge opposition to a Rooney Rule being brought into the game, that many influential figures will sit back and hope it falls short. Those opposed to it had no alternative solution, instead insisting that given time things would get better. Which essentially means they had no ideas, and didn’t see the need for urgency.

So it is vital that BAME candidates with qualifications – of which there are many – put themselves forward for roles and test the system. And where there are BAME people with aspirations of coaching at the elite level – they must get qualified.

If the EFL’s ground breaking move is a success, the football industry will have gained better coaches and – after decades of exclusion in coaching – we will begin to see a more level playing field in this area.

We cannot sit back and let others dictate how this important trial goes. This impacts not just on us now, but generations long after we are gone.

*This column first appeared in The Voice Newspaper

Many of you may know that alongside my broadcasting work and production company, Refresh Films, I also have a sports consultancy. I’m keen to get more people involved in this area so I am advertising for an intern.

Don’t worry… it’s not one of those tea making roles. The internship is for motivated, confident and creative candidates who have a keen ambition to work in the sports industry. I know how hard it is to get a foot in the door… join my team to help get ahead of the pack!

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Intern
Organisation: Leon Mann Limited
Location: Chancery Lane, London
Salary: Expenses
Hours: Part time – 16 hours a week (2 days a week)
Deadline: 12/08/2016 by 5pm – interviews will commence the week beginning 22nd August

About the Role:

Leon Mann Limited are taking on an Intern to support the team. The ideal candidate will be interested in sports, media and marketing and be very creative and possess a multi-media skills base.

The role will provide the Senior Management Team and all employees with administrative, communications & events support across a range of areas within a growing and vibrant Sports Management Consultancy.
You will receive training in media, marketing and events, while working across some of the biggest sports people in the UK.

The post holder will be required to work with the senior team to look after sportspeople, host events and help with administrative tasks. The role is a creative position where we expect you to have experience in InDesign, Photoshop and have a creative mind.

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

• Managing day to day communication outputs; obtaining regular information from different projects; keeping an eye on relevant industry happenings or client activities.
• Providing support to the Senior Management Team, including travel planning / booking, meeting arrangements and general office management.
• Support all staff in general administrative duties.
• Keep abreast of programme developments from across our network, including relevant industry happenings & clients activities.
• Help to forge links with other likeminded organisations and people via social media.
• Support with making promotional videos and other multimedia.
• Support the team with events including the managing of guest lists, sourcing and securing venues and on the day support.
• Generating content from events including video, photographic and interviews.

Person Specification:

• Working knowledge of a variety of social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn
• Fluent English skills and strong written communication skills
• An interest in sport, journalism or PR
• A supportive team player with a positive can-do attitude
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple workloads
• Willingness to work out of office hours representing Leon Mann Limited externally
• Of a personable, positive and outgoing disposition whilst maintaining a professional approach

How to apply:
Please send us your CV and a covering letter (200 words), audio or video file to mie@leonmann.co.uk

At the Euros I recently interviewed the most expensive footballer in the world – Gareth Bale. The Wales and Real Madrid star had just finished a press conference, sat down separately with the written press to field more questions and then came to me for my exclusive interview for ITV.

As he sat down I joked off camera, “How did the interviews go? Lots of similar questions to the press conference?” He offered a slight smile but was clearly keen not to give anything away. This was the first time I had interviewed Bale, so he was working me out. Could he trust me?

The cameras soon started rolling and we were off! I knew I had 10 minutes to cover a range of areas – so jumped straight into it. How proud was he of Wales achievements? What has been the secret to their success? How does he get those free kicks up and down over the wall? Are Wales a one man team?

I knew I had to keep him interested in the interview – so kept my tone conversational but fun. His response made for great tv. He became more candid in his responses. The stand out line that caught the public’s attention was born out of this dynamic. “What have Wales done to get to the Euro quarter finals that England haven’t?” I asked – slightly cheekily. “Won football matches and qualified!” Bale barked back. “Just that – nothing more?” I continued to nudge. “Yep!” he replied.

Watching that moment back, Bale certainly put me in my place. Many watching may have felt he didn’t like me. Maybe he didn’t. But I had done my job. I had helped to make some great tv. Something people would be talking about.

A criticism I have faced in the past, is that my interviews seem too ‘in’… Like two mates having a chat. It’s something I’ve taken on board but came to the conclusion that my relaxed conversational style often results in this dynamic. It’s what I do. And essentially, if I get new information that’s interesting this way – then I’ve done my job. So this interview was very different to what I normally end up with.

But this is the beauty of interviewing. In the same way we all go about our daily conversations in life. The most memorable are those that are different… and make you think.

Surreal is probably the best word to describe the last few weeks. As some of you may have seen, I’ve been working for ITV at Euro 2016 – and it’s been amazing!

My role initially was to follow Northern Ireland, Wales and Ireland – and it couldn’t have gone any better with all three making the knock out stages. I must admit that I didn’t anticipate all three would progress, even if I did hope it would happen.

Being there when Wales destroyed Russia to top a group including England was an experience I didn’t think could be topped. But then the next day Northern Ireland pull off an incredible performance against Germany to reach the round of 16, followed by Ireland blowing my mind with a late goal to beat Italy and get through too. All huge achievements.

To be the man with the mic interviewing these countries heroes and doing pitch side presentations – to audiences of millions – is an honour and a privilege I’ll never forget.

The hardest part of this tournament has been being away from my young family. My youngest is only 7 weeks and eldest 4 years old. Fortunately I have a very understanding wife who also works in the industry. Clearly I’m very lucky to be in France – and I’ve gained a greater appreciation for all the parents who regularly have long spells away with work.

There is also the increased scrutiny that was a little odd. Having been working in TV for 6 years now I’m used to the odd comment popping up on twitter about my work – both positive and not so positive – and accept it as part of the gig. However, I did chuckle when I saw the level of discussion my suit jacket for a game caused! I’m surprised it wasn’t trending on twitter. But in many ways this opened my eyes to the level of interest in all things about the Euros. Where tv audiences for football can easily reach a few million in the season, during an international football tournament the big England games get 14 million tuning in…

Teamwork is vital at these tournaments – and I’m not just talking about the players – we reporters also need this in abundance. We have a producer, Rachael, technical producer, Rupert, and cameraman, Roger, all making me look good (well trying…!). Without these guys I’d be totally lost – so I’m grateful to have such strong professionals and good people alongside me out here.

I’ve been trying to give everyone a look behind the scenes at Euro 2016 on social media. When I was young I would have loved to have seen how the reporters prepare for the games we see on tv. I’m hoping I can help to inspire young readers of this column and those on social media to also aim to report from a World Cup, Olympics, AFCON or European Championships in the future. I worked hard to get here, and I’m enjoying every minute.

I’ve been thinking about who my vote for the Football Writers Association player of the year will go to and I’m torn…

So many players have had incredible seasons. Spurs trio Harry Kane, Dele Alli and Toby Alderweireld have been awesome. Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil has racked up more assists that a lollipop lady – while West Ham’s Dmitri Payet has looked like a super human time and time again.

The Leicester City story has gripped us all and this is where I’m stuck. Jamie Vardy’s goals have been central to the Foxes unexpected title chase and N’Golo Kante has dominated the midfield to become one of the Premier League’s star performers. But I’m torn between two men… Riyah Mahrez and captain Wes Morgan – and I would love to see both recognised between the PFA and FWA awards.

Mahrez would become the first African to win the PFA player of the year award if his fellow pros have given him the most votes. He has been shortlisted for the accolade and I really hope he makes history. Vardy has scored more, with 22, but Mahrez has scored loads and given tons more assists. At the time of writing he has 16 goals and 11 assists (Vardy has 6 assists). So this is why he edges the England striker for me. I’ve also met the Algerian and you could not wish to meet a nicer and more humble man.

Morgan has been given little credit for his role in the Foxes title challenge. It staggers me that he’s not been more visible in the media. As the skipper you would have thought we’d have heard more from him. But perhaps this is all part of a clever strategy Leicester have followed in constantly down playing their title chances. Either way Morgan’s leadership has been outstanding and his partnership with Robert Huth at the heart of their defence has been top drawer. What a huge moment it would be for him to lift the trophy – especially after his success with Jamaica last summer, too.

So – do I go for a Jamaican defender who would be the first Reggae Boy to lift the title as captain or Africa’s first PFA player of the year (hopefully)? Frankly – just having that choice is more important and something our communities should celebrate.

Help me out and tell me who gets your vote by tweeting me @Leon_Mann

Leon joins Laurie Cunningham’s family and campaigners at Leyton Orient

I was honoured to be at the launch of a campaign to raise money to put a statue of the late great Laurie Cunningham opposite the Leyton Orient stadium.

Waltham Forest Council are leading the campaign with the help of Orient and Kick It Out, football’s inclusion and equality group, and Laurie’s family were at the launch to show their support.

Speaking on the day was Laurie’s teammate at Orient, Bobby Fisher. He relayed fantastic stories about the pioneer’s love of football and fashion – and what struck me most was Laurie’s refusal to just be one of the crowd. He expressed himself through his football and fashion at a time when it wasn’t easy to be black in the UK. 

To find out more or donate – go to www.walthamforest.gov.uk/laurieslegacy – I really hope readers get behind the campaign!