The Scouting Report: KIRSTEN SAVAGE, Chief of Staff🏆From Intern to Executive: Driving Innovation in Sports Technology

Rise at ANC: From Intern to Executive

Originally from North Jersey, she started her college career at Sacred Heart in Connecticut, playing Division I softball before transferring to Manhattanville in New York, where she became a two-sport athlete in softball and field hockey. “Manhattanville had a five-year master’s program, which was a huge draw for me,” she recalls. It was during her time there that a former teammate introduced her to an internship opportunity at ANC. “It was my junior year, and I was starting to think about my career path – so when the chance to intern at ANC came up, I jumped at it.”

That decision set the stage for a career entirely within one organization. She interned at ANC throughout her final two years of school, ultimately earning a full-time position just before graduating with her master’s. From a junior account executive in client services to leading the entire services department as Senior Vice President, her rise was fueled by an eagerness to learn and a willingness to take on new challenges. Now, as Chief of Staff, she works closely with the CEO and COO, overseeing executive initiatives and partner relationships. “It’s a new role for me, but it’s been an exciting transition,” she says. “I get to see the big picture and help shape ANC’s future.”

A Leader in Sports Technology

ANC is at the intersection of technology and sports, providing cutting-edge LED displays, software, services, and advertising solutions to venues across professional and collegiate sports, as well as other high-profile locations. “We tailor our offerings to fit the needs of our partners, whether that’s jumbotrons in stadiums or massive digital billboards like you’d see in Times Square,” Kirsten explains. Their ability to customize solutions has led to long-standing partnerships with some of the biggest names in sports.

The company’s impact extends beyond the field of play, with ANC transforming fan experiences in places like Notre Dame Stadium, Fenway Park, and the homes of teams like the LA Dodgers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, and new partnerships with teams like the San Francisco 49ers. “We’re not just providing technology – we’re creating moments that fans will remember,” Kirsten says. “It’s rewarding to know that our work plays a part in the atmosphere of these iconic venues.”

Finding a Career in Sports

Like many young athletes, Kirsten once dreamed of becoming a professional player. “That didn’t quite pan out,” she laughs, “but I always knew I wanted to work in sports.” Her decision to transfer to Manhattanville was largely influenced by its sports business management program, which set her on a path toward the industry. “I took legal classes, business courses, and sports management – at the time, I didn’t know exactly where I’d land, but I knew it had to be in sports.”

Her openness to opportunity played a key role in her career trajectory. “When the internship at ANC came along, I didn’t hesitate. And that’s something I always tell young professionals – just get your foot in the door. Even if you don’t have a specific end goal, the right opportunities will present themselves if you’re willing to work for them.”

Moments That Matter

For Kirsten, there have been a few defining moments in her career – times when she’s taken a step back and realized the impact of her work. “One of the biggest was installing the first LED boards at Notre Dame Stadium,” she says. “That program is legendary, and to play a role in modernizing their game-day experience was surreal.” Standing on the 50-yard line and seeing their work come to life was a moment of immense pride.

Another standout memory was attending Game 2 of the 2018 World Series at Fenway Park. “The Red Sox are a huge partner of ours, and we were running the in-stadium display operations. Being in the stands, watching the game unfold, and knowing we were part of that experience was incredible.” When Boston went on to win the championship, it made the moment even sweeter. “It was one of those times where you just step back and say, ‘Wow, we’re part of something bigger than ourselves."

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