Andre Perez
Director, Football Operations, National Football League
Age: 29
Born: Bronx, N.Y.
Education: Cornell University, B.S., applied economics and management; Harvard Business School, MBA
As a Cornell undergrad, Andre Perez co-created a program that paired inner-city high schoolers as mentors to younger students. Carrying that value for learning to the NFL, he and his team created Master Classes for football operations that were later replicated for all employees.
more About you
Most important lesson learned in 2020: With all its unique challenges, 2020 helped reinforce the importance of checking in with everyone around you and offering support in any way you can. It takes a village.
Ways to network or stay connected with peers this year: I made it a goal to have at least one virtual coffee chat with friends a week.
My inspiration: I’ve had the privilege to learn from Troy Vincent, executive vice president of football operations and one of the brightest, most authentic leaders in sports. While ensuring that the game of football remains competitive and fair, Troy is driven by his desire to make a lasting impact in the world, while still being a devoted family man. This passion — coupled with his commitment to excellence and genuineness — motivates all of those around him. This unique form of leadership inspires me and I hope to one day lead in a similar way.
In the industry
Biggest surprise when I started my career: Starting out in the NFL’s Junior Rotational Program, I was fascinated to learn about all of the different career paths sports had to offer. Growing up low income in the Bronx, the career paths I heard most about were in the legal or health care field.
Most exciting aspect of sports business: Sports has served as a powerful catalyst for social change; having the privilege to work for an organization and in an industry that can use its platform to improve the society excites me most.
How my generation is changing sports: Research has shown that millennials are mission-driven and care about issues much greater than themselves. With our optimistic perspective and empathetic leadership, millennials are challenging how brands use their platforms to catalyze change. …We will continue to challenge the status quo.
