In our "Meet the Team" series, we introduce you to the incredible people who drive Raw Stadia's success. Next up is Aurélie, a driven professional with a background in law and a passion for sports and innovation. Let's get to know her better.
Can you tell us a little about your background and what brought you to join our team?
My career path started in law, where I studied at the University of Ghent and later pursued an additional Master’s in General Management at Vlerick Business School. After several years working as a litigation and contract lawyer in Brussels, I came to the realisation that while I enjoyed the intellectual challenge, I wanted to step into something more dynamic and impactful. That’s when I applied for the Prince Albert Fund, a prestigious programme that gives young professionals the opportunity to gain international experience by working on high-level projects abroad.
When I came across Raw Stadia’s project for the Prince Albert Fund, I was immediately drawn to the company. Raw Stadia stood out because of its innovative vision and the energy of the people behind it. I loved the idea of being part of a passionate team working on cutting-edge technology that makes a real difference in the world of sports. It was the perfect blend of what I was looking for—an opportunity to step into a new industry, take on fresh challenges, and grow both professionally and personally.
Do you have any previous experience or projects that you're particularly proud of and would like to share with us?
One project I’m especially proud of is co-founding a student organisation in Ghent that focuses on social entrepreneurship. We organised various events and projects aimed at empowering students to develop business solutions with a positive social impact. I’m still involved with the organisation today as part of the advisory board, which has been a rewarding experience, watching it grow and evolve over time.
Another experience that had a huge impact on me was setting up a volunteering project in India. Together with two others, we worked with a local company, providing advice on improving their inventory, HR processes, and operational efficiency. This experience opened my eyes to the importance of creating sustainable business practices, and it was incredible to see how our input made a tangible difference to the company and the local community. Both experiences have shaped my approach to leadership, problem-solving, and social responsibility.
Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests?
Tennis has always been a big part of my life—I started playing when I was just four years old, and my passion for the sport has never waned. Today, I not only enjoy playing, but I also love coaching both children and adults. There’s something incredibly rewarding about helping others improve their skills and share in the joy of the game.
I’m also an outdoor enthusiast, and you can often find me running, hiking, or practising yoga. Nature is a big source of inspiration for me, whether I’m out exploring new trails or capturing its beauty through photography. Documentaries and politics are also areas of personal interest, as they help me stay engaged with the world and its ever-evolving issues.
Lastly, do you have any fun facts or anecdotes you'd like to share with your new colleagues?
A fun fact about me is that I grew up on an alpaca farm in West Flanders! To this day, my family and I still take care of our 44 alpacas. It’s not the most common upbringing, but it’s one that I wouldn’t trade for anything. Alpacas are such gentle animals, and looking after them is a unique way to stay connected with nature. Plus, it makes for some pretty interesting conversations at social gatherings!
What excites you the most about your role here?
What excites me most is the opportunity to work with people who are not only highly professional but also deeply passionate about sports. Raw Stadia is filled with talented individuals who are committed to pushing the boundaries of sports technology, and being part of that environment is incredibly inspiring. Every day presents a new challenge, but it’s rewarding to know that the work we’re doing is helping to elevate the performance and safety of athletes around the world.
What are some of your key strengths or areas of expertise that you bring to the team?
I believe one of my key strengths is my ability to connect the dots between different areas of expertise. I have a natural curiosity and an analytical mindset, which allows me to approach problems from various angles and find creative solutions. Additionally, my go-getter mentality means I’m always eager to take on new challenges, and I don’t shy away from the unknown. Lastly, empathy is a trait I value deeply—understanding the needs and perspectives of others is crucial when building strong, collaborative relationships, whether it’s with colleagues, clients, or partners.
What do you hope to accomplish or learn during your time with us?
My primary goal is to raise awareness of Raw Stadia among elite sports clubs in the US. I’m excited to work on building partnerships, closing deals, and supporting the growth of our brand in a new market. I also hope to be part of the team that establishes an American subsidiary, which would be a significant milestone for the company.
On a personal level, I’m looking forward to growing my networking and sales skills. This role will provide me with a fantastic opportunity to meet a wide range of people, learn from their experiences, and develop the skills I need to succeed in business development and beyond.
Are there any specific challenges or opportunities within your role that you're looking forward to tackling?
The challenge I’m most excited about is balancing the many opportunities that come with being in a generalist role. I’ll be wearing many hats, from building client relationships to working on strategic partnerships and everything in between. It’s going to be a balancing act, but it’s also what makes the role so dynamic and exciting. I’m looking forward to tackling these challenges head-on and seeing how I can contribute to Raw Stadia’s growth.
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