Natalie Pinkham

Sky Sports F1 Presenter / Reporter 

Due to the current global uncertainty surrounding Covid-19 and the interruption to studies for so many students, we decided to reach out to the F1 family for some motivation and inspiration. 

Here they share their experiences about their own route into the industry, and their life during lockdown. 

 


— What is your name and job title?

Natalie Pinkham, Sky F1 Presenter / Reporter.

— Could you give me a summary of your job role?

Hosting a handful of shows on an F1 race weekend, plus interviewing drivers in the pen after track sessions – most importantly after the race itself.

— What did you want to be when you grew up?

Either a producer or presenter in TV.

— When did you know you wanted to work in Formula 1?

I have always been a fan of F1 but didn’t think it was a viable career choice until the BBC offered me a job as pit lane reporter for Five Live.

— What’s the best thing about your job?

Travelling the world, meeting interesting people and following a sport I love.

— What subjects and courses did you take?

I studied Politics at Nottingham University – whether I have used it in my career is a moot point!

— Did you do any work experience?

Yes plenty, I asked anyone and everyone for unpaid roles making tea and running scripts around… I soon got promoted- but only because I made terrible tea.

— What has been your biggest challenge?

Juggling home and work life.

— What’s been the highlight of your career so far?

Going to every corner of the earth – which goes some way towards satisfying a curious mind.

— What was the best thing you ever did to help you get to where you are today?

There’s no substitute for hard work.  I was once told to be the first in and the last to leave every day – and to fill your day well.  You never stop learning… especially in F1 – we are all works in progress!

— What advice would you give to someone who aspires to do what you do for a career?

Wait til the end of the credits of a tv show you love and write down the producer’s name – contact him or her, explaining why you enjoyed it so much… and that you would like to meet to see if they have any opportunities for you.  Always follow what you’re passionate about… then you’ll never get bored doing it, and it will never feel like hard work.

— Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many students have had their studies interrupted and are unsure of how it will affect them in the future.  Are there any words of advice or inspiration you can share during such a challenging time?

It’s so important to keep connected by communicating with friends, fellow students and colleagues on a daily basis.  Equally it’s vital to have some quiet time – take yourself away to process your thoughts to stop anxiety setting in… and exercise – the endorphins released by working up a sweat will carry you through even the toughest of days.

— How are you coping with the lockdown?

Accepting a new norm seems to really help – then making the very best of the situation by structuring your day… having a routine, and daily exercise is great.  I have loved having quality family time.  The kids have kept me on my toes!  And the sun is shining so we are actually all very lucky.

 

Thank you Natalie for sharing your journey with us!