Gilt Edge Soccer Marketing founder, John Guppy, has built a reputation over the past 25 years as one of the leading authorities on the business of soccer marketing. The former Chicago Fire President/CEO and Octagon Director has helped more than 50 brands develop and execute marketing platforms to reach
the U.S. soccer consumer.
Marketing
John’s extensive corporate marketing experience began in 1991 when he managed the U.S. Soccer Federation’s national corporate partnerships with clients including MasterCard and Sprint. Since that time he has helped develop and execute brand marketing initiatives in soccer for clients from multiple industries including: apparel, automotive, CPG, electronics, energy, financial services, food and beverage, healthcare, retail, technology, and telecommunications.
John has played a prominent role in the management and development of soccer properties from the U.S. Soccer Federation to Major League Soccer to College and Youth soccer. His experiences have included strategic planning, sponsorship development, broadcast negotiation, fan research, and event management. As President/CEO of the Chicago Fire John guided the Club’s move from Soldier Field to its new home at Toyota Park, leading the MLS Club to unprecedented business growth during his 3-year tenure.
Personal
John grew up playing soccer in Winchester, England, signing an Associated Schoolboy contract with his local professional club, Southampton FC. He went on to compete collegiately at New Hampshire College, where he became a two-time All-American and captained his team to a National Championship in 1989. John received his Masters Degree in Sport Management from the University of Massachusetts in 1991 – whilst acting as an assistant coach for the Minutemen and also running his own soccer camps.
Not surprisingly John’s soccer allegiances are firmly routed with Southampton FC and the Chicago Fire. He cites winning the U.S. Open Cup with the Fire in 2006 and Southampton “not” getting relegated in 1999 as two of his most memorable soccer moments. He resides in Naperville, IL with his wife Carla
and three children.
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