LaSource is Growing: Meet Simão van Zeller, Our New Business Development Manager!
At LaSource, we pride ourselves on connecting the right people, ideas, and opportunities to drive the sports tech industry forward. This philosophy doesn’t just apply to our clients and partners - it’s at the core of how we build our team. As we continue to grow, we’re excited to welcome Simão van Zeller as our new Business Development Manager!
Simão is no stranger to the sports tech ecosystem. Having previously worked at APEX, where he helped startups scale and navigate the industry, he brings a wealth of experience that perfectly aligns with our mission at LaSource. His expertise in driving business growth and building strategic partnerships will be a major asset as we continue to expand our impact within the industry.
But rather than us telling you more, let’s hear from Simão himself!
Welcome to LaSource, Simão! Why did you decide to join us?
SVZ: Thank you for such a warm welcome! I have been working in the sports industry for two years now, and have been following very closely the work done by LaSource. I was drawn to the unique position of the company and the impact it has had so far in the industry.
LaSource’s dedication to innovation and its collaborative work with both startups and established organisations strongly resonated with me. The opportunity to play a role in shaping the future of sports through strategic partnerships and forward-thinking solutions aligns perfectly with what I believe in and what I’m passionate about.
Can you tell us a bit about your background?
SVZ: Before joining LaSource, I worked at APEX, as a BD Associate. This experience allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the sector. I focused on driving business growth and establishing strategic partnerships, which I believe will be invaluable in my role here at LaSource.
I have completed both my bachelor's and master’s degrees in sports management, which gave me the necessary curiosity to explore how this industry can be disrupted and improved through technology.
My passion for entrepreneurship and the startup ecosystem really started when I founded two projects: Atuamente (a mental health platform) and 2Gather (a platform to organise programs with friends). More recently, I have been a Partner at Kaotiko Portugal, leading the expansion of the well-known Barcelona-based clothing brand into the Portuguese market.
With this experience, I’m excited to bring my skills to LaSource, leveraging my knowledge of the sports tech space to foster new opportunities and drive impactful growth.
What excites you the most about LaSource? And what will be your main focus/objective at the company?
SVZ: I’m particularly excited about LaSource’s mission to accelerate growth for sports tech companies and organizations through tailored business strategies. My main objective will be to leverage my experience to expand our network of clients and partners, fostering relationships that drive actual success. I’m eager to contribute to the innovative projects that LaSource is known for and to help our clients achieve their business goals.
If LaSource had to be compared to one professional sports team? According to you, which one would it be and why?
SVZ: I believe LaSource can be compared to the French Rugby National Team as we have experienced leaders that know the industry like no one else and an up and coming young talent ready to disrupt and take risks.
Lastly, which is your favourite sport and favourite athlete? Do tell us why!
SVZ: This is an easy one for me. My favourite sport is definitely Rugby Union, as I was a rugby player myself (I’ll blame my ACL for my early retirement).
And as for favourite athlete, there is only one answer: Cristiano Ronaldo. And if it is not clear by my name as well, I am Portuguese, which might seem biased, but he is definitely the definition of hard work and discipline, and these are some of the values I really believe in.
LaSource is a sports consulting agency working closely with startups, sports tech companies, and sports and media organisations to create and implement business strategies that accelerate growth and shape the future of the Sports industry. Explore our services by clicking the link below