Meet Our Member: Stephen Bent
The meet our member series introduces some of our members at The View. This time we meet Stephen Bent from Reliance Sports Management.
Can you tell us about your work, what you do, and how you came to be?
Reliance Sports Management is an Irish-owned sports management company with offices in Dublin and the UK. We primarily focus on football, assisting athletes with their careers. Our specialties include Contracts & Negotiations, Transfer & Placements, Sponsorship & Branding, Sports Law, and Media/PR. Having previously worked with both the FAI and PFAI, sport has always been a big part of my life. I founded Reliance Sports Management in late 2022 after running a recruitment agency for seven years. The skills I gained there were invaluable and highly transferable to my passion—helping clients progress their careers in football on a daily basis.
What has your co-working experience been like?
My co-working experience at The View has been incredibly positive. The collaborative environment and networking opportunities have greatly benefited our business. The community here is supportive and innovative, making it an ideal place for growth and productivity.
What keeps you well?
Maintaining a balance between work and personal life is crucial for my well-being. I prioritize regular exercise and spending quality time with family and friends. This balance helps me stay focused and energized.
What's the best career advice you've received?
The best career advice I've received is to stay adaptable and continuously learn. The business landscape is always evolving, and being open to new ideas and changes has been key to our success. Additionally, surrounding yourself with people who are smarter than you and taking chances.
What's your favourite book/series/film and why?
My favorite book is "The Obstacle Is the Way" by Ryan Holiday. The book draws inspiration from stoicism, the ancient Greek philosophy of enduring pain or adversity with perseverance and resilience. Stoics focus on what they can control, let go of everything else, and turn every new obstacle into an opportunity to get better.
My favorite film is "Shawshank Redemption"—a classic with a great cast!
What does the future of work look like for you?
The future of work for me involves embracing flexible and remote working arrangements, leveraging technology to enhance productivity, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. My experience at The View has shown me the importance of a supportive co-working community in achieving these goals.
