Pivoting Your Career with NFL Players Association Christina Fulton

Changing careers can be one of the scariest challenges in your life journey. We're inspired by stories of women like Christina Fulton who pivoted her career from fashion to marketing in the NFL. Christina Fulton’s expertise spans the sports, entertainment, and fashion industries with over 15 years of experience in brand management, marketing, event planning, trend forecasting, and buying. Christina Fulton joined the NFL Players Incorporated, the marketing and licensing subsidiary of the NFL Players Association in 2018. Fulton oversees strategic partnerships, general business development, works with NFL sponsors and NFL clubs to maximize marketing partnerships and group player rights utilization, in addition to focusing on growing player licensed products.

Fulton’s responsibilities also include consulting with partners to expand off-the-field opportunities for NFL players and assisting with the implementation of player activation strategies. Her professional work experiences include stints with Betsey Johnson in showroom sales and Macy’s in the buying, fashion, and special events offices as well as freelance writing. Fulton is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology with a degree in Fashion Merchandising Management. We chatted with Fulton on her career journey so far, check it out below:

When you were in undergrad what were you interested in doing as far as a lifelong career?

In undergrad, I didn’t specifically know what my lifelong career goal was, however, I knew what I enjoyed studying and that was fashion. I knew the excitement I had touching fabrics, forecasting trends, going to the garment district, showrooms, and warehouses to see the latest collections. I also enjoyed visiting museums as I found inspiration everywhere.

What surprised you most after college career-wise I was surprised by the vast career opportunities in the fashion industry?

Though there may be a wealth of opportunities, I recommend narrowing it down and figuring out what you're passionate about. Keep in mind, you can grow and flourish over time into other roles. You don’t necessarily have to stay within the same industry.

Did you have an advocate in your work life? If so, how did it help you?

I had many advocates in my work life and they served as my mentors and also exposed me to career opportunities I didn’t know existed. It was extremely beneficial to speak with my advocates as I navigated the corporate industry. I recommend building your network and having mentors. Throughout life, you will learn how key it is to build strong relationships and not burn bridges. Though many of the industries may seem large, the network is small.

What do you wish you knew ten years ago about corporate life? Corporate life is what you make it- this goes for any sector. Don’t feel the need to put yourself in a box, if you have multiple talents let them shine. When did you know it was time to make a change career-wise? When God called me to shift and move, that is when I knew it was time to make a career change. Being obedient in every season is key.

What steps did you take when you wanted to pivot to another career?

I did the research, invested time, and expanded my network in the sports industry. I attended sports-related networking events, panel discussions, volunteered, conducted exploratory calls, and lunch or coffee meetings with individuals in the industry.

What advice would you give someone looking to do the same thing?

Make the investment in yourself. Everyone’s path may look different however, I would recommend gaining as much experience as you can. When I was in undergrad I interned for numerous companies and many of those internships led to job offers. I know individuals that studied and worked abroad for a period of time. It may not be beneficial to acquire an additional degree depending on the role however, on-the-job experience is important. It will help you navigate different industries and it gives you the opportunity to learn what you may or may not want to embark on as a career. Also, it may be beneficial to join an organization in the industry you’re looking to move into, however, ensure the organization makes sense for what you’re looking to accomplish.

What's the best career advice you've ever received? Know your worth and have multiple streams of income.