Getting to Know – James Clark (Founder & Managing Director, GamePlan)
We catch up with our Founder and MD, James Clark — a strategic consultant, sports CEO, creative, broadcaster and all-round problem solver. He loves a challenge!
Welcome to the latest in our ‘Getting to Know’ series — a behind-the-scenes look at the GamePlan team.
We catch up with our Founder and MD, James Clark — a strategic consultant, sports CEO, creative, broadcaster and all-round problem solver. He loves a challenge!
A bit about James...
James became one of the youngest Chief Executives in professional sport when he was appointed CEO of Super League club, Hull FC, at just 26.
Over 15 years, he delivered unprecedented success on and off the field — setting multi-million commercial records, building a deep connection with the community and fans, and most importantly, delivered a winning team as the club secured back-to-back Challenge Cup titles at Wembley.
A former broadcaster and journalist, James has worked with some notable people and in some notable places.
He’s worked across broadcasting, marketing, events, digital, commercial sales, player recruitment, and public relations — always with a clear focus on creating content, delivering value and building something special. It pays to be different.
One of his most recent projects, alongside the development of GamePlan and brands like PerkArena, has been the launch and start-up of Europe’s newest rugby league club, the Goole Vikings, playing in the heart of East Yorkshire where he was brought up as a youngster.
The project includes the development of a brand new £7 million stadium project, as part of an exciting £25 million regeneration plan for the town.
Why GamePlan?
GamePlan was born out of a desire to help businesses think bigger, act smarter, and create sustainable growth — sharing some of the valuable lessons we've learned along the way in business, sport and media.
Whether he’s working with a start-up, SMEs, professional sports clubs, or a national brands, James brings the same energy, insight, innovation, and integrity.
Three Quickfire Qs with James...
💡 What motivates you?
Helping people unlock their potential — whether it’s a club, a brand, or an individual. I love watching the plan come to life. It is great to share in that work with people and know you are making a difference.
🎤 What’s your superpower?
Handling chaos with some clarity! I pride myself on a good work ethic. And hopefully making it feel fun along the way! People say I'm a good talker - which I hope they mean as a compliment!
📈 What’s next?
Growing GamePlan, launching new projects like PerkArena, and working with some great people. Hopefully we can get the Vikings promoted at some stage too!
Want to connect with James or work with GamePlan? Say hello.
