Throughout the 2022-23 off-season, the Ontario Hockey League will be spotlighting a member from each of our teams’ front office staffs as we look to highlight those working “Behind the Scenes” of the day-to-day operations.
The newest edition features Kingston Frontenacs Manager of Marketing and Digital Media, Colton Robb.
CR: My name is Colton Robb and I am the Manager of Marketing and Digital Media for the Kingston Frontenacs Hockey Club. I am a graduate of Algonquin College with a diploma in Interactive Multimedia Development and I also completed a graduate certificate in Interactive Marketing Communications at St. Lawrence College. I started working with the Kingston Frontenacs during the 2019-20 season.
What are your responsibilities as the Kingston Frontenacs Manager of Marketing and Digital Media?
CR: As the Manager of Marketing and Digital Media, my duties are to oversee the Kingston Frontenacs’ marketing department and work hand in hand with two incredibly talented employees in Mike Omelan (Coordinator of Game Operations and Videography) and Spencer Loeb (Coordinator of Marketing and Digital Media). The marketing department is tasked with creating compelling content that can be used across multiple platforms, including on the team’s website, social media channels, internal/external communications, game operations and within marketing campaigns. The marketing department also works closely with every other department within the team’s business operations and hockey operations to ensure the proper messaging is going out to stakeholders, fans and media outlets.
What has been your favourite project since joining the Frontenacs?
CR: Personally, one of my favourite projects that I was able to work on would have to be when the Kingston Frontenacs rebranded heading into the 2021-22 season. It was a great opportunity to work with a blank slate and start building a new story/era for the Kingston Frontenacs. A lot of planning went into the rollout of the new colour scheme, logo and jerseys and overall, I think the team did a great job producing content/messaging for the changeover.
Another fond memory would be the Kingston Frontenacs 2022-23 season. Last year was the 50th anniversary of Kingston’s franchise. In my opinion, our business operations staff did a great job planning and creating a season-long celebration of our past while still looking ahead to our future. Things that stood out were the theme and community nights, specialty jerseys, unique content creation and being able to bring our alumni back to celebrate.
What led you to your current role with the Frontenacs?
CR: I have always been drawn to sports. When my passion for design caught up to my love of sports, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in sports and entertainment. I was always interested in the business/creative side of sports. I remember creating season long highlight reel packages for the teams I played on as well as designing team graphics whenever possible. What started off as a hobby, quickly turned into an obsession.
Being a local Kingstonian, I grew up a Kingston Frontenacs fan. As I got older, it became a goal of mine to work for the Kingston Frontenacs. I am grateful everyday for the opportunity I have with the team. Going from a fan to an employee is special and my mission is to make the Kingston Frontenacs as successful as I can.
What has been the most fulfilling part about working for Kingston?
CR: I think one of the more fulfilling things about working for the Kingston Frontenacs and within the Ontario Hockey League is the ability to be deeply connected with the community. It is clear how important community is to the hockey club’s success. It is amazing being able to work closely with local organizations and groups to strengthen our connection with the community and make a positive impact.
What is something that you’re looking forward to building on for next season?
CR: I think the Kingston Frontenacs marketing department has just scratched the surface as to what it is capable of. I am excited to work with a talented group of full time and game day staff members as we continue to set new goals/standards. This upcoming season promises to bring a lot of entertainment to Kingston. I look forward to seeing all the Fronts fans in attendance at the Leon’s Centre and them being able to enjoy what’s to come!
