This week on The Sporting Transition Podcast I’m joined by Tom Warren, former Worcester Warrior and London Irish prop, who shares his powerful journey from the front row to the front line of business.
After almost a decade in professional rugby, beginning in the Saracens Academy and Worcester’s first RFU Academy setup and taking him through France and the Premiership, Tom’s career was cut short at just 28 after serious neck injuries. What followed was a story of reinvention, honesty and determination. 🙌
Unsure where to turn, Tom took advice from his wife, who reminded him that most people write a CV and upload it to Monster. A chance conversation with a recruiter opened the door to recruitment and business development. Tom quickly discovered that the structure, drive and competitiveness that defined his rugby career were the same qualities that fuelled his success in business.
Since then he has built an impressive sales leadership career with companies such as Michael Page, Gartner and Forrester, showing exactly how sporting habits can translate into high performance in the workplace.
Here is what we dive into 👇👇
1️⃣ The shock of losing his identity at 28
2️⃣ The power of mentors who recognise potential before you see it yourself
3️⃣ Why imposter syndrome can be a genuine superpower
4️⃣ His belief that in sport or business, you have to go all in
A brilliant episode packed with humour, honesty and practical lessons for any athlete or professional navigating transition.
A huge thank you to Tom for sharing his journey with such openness and energy.
Former Ospreys lock Lloyd Ashley shares how early setbacks shaped his mindset around life after rugby, and how curiosity, education and vulnerability helped him build a purposeful career supporting player wellbeing.
Jackson Wray shares how he planned his transition years in advance, building education, networks and practical experience alongside 300 plus Saracens appearances to create a new career with clarity and purpose.
Former Saracens prop Ralph Adams Hale reflects on his first year in the Lloyd’s market, sharing how education, networking and mindset shifts helped him transition from elite sport to underwriting at Apollo.