Careers: What's it really like inside - Betfair

Marketing 15-Jul-08

- Betfair backs a number of sporting events. Does the team get to go to all of them?

All staff have the opportunity to go to the sporting events that we
sponsor, and to some that we don't.

- Does working for the biggest international betting company mean that
the marketing team travels often?

Our poker, games and casino business is based in Malta, so the team

definitely has the opportunity to travel, and is encouraged to do
so.

- Describe the marketing team in three words.

Innovative, resourceful, focused.

- Is there a dress code?

The dress code within the office is very informal, with many
nationalities bringing all styles to the mix.

- What are the perks of the job?

They include a yearly bonus, subsidised gym membership, pensions,
travelcard loans, ride2work bicycle subsidies, childcare vouchers and
BETsave share options. We also have a Friday beer fridge, games, TV
rooms and plasma screens.

- How do you come up with ideas?

We constantly focus on what we do, how we do it and how we can challenge
the norm.

- Does the team socialise outside office hours? What is the local
bar?

The most convenient watering hole is the beer fridge in the marketing
department. We can often be found in The Distillers on Fulham Palace
Road or The Chancellors, which has a dartboard and resident dog.

- What are the hours like?

During the big sporting events, such as Spring Racing or Euro 2008, they
can be demanding. Otherwise, we generally work 9am to 6pm.

- What is the company like for training and career progression?

Training opportunities are always available and all employees are
encouraged to improve their skills.

- What about the salary and benefits?

The salaries are more than competitive, and the benefits are
fantastic.

- Are there any downsides?

None that I have found in just over 12 months.

- Is there anything interesting about the inside of your office?

We are based in a beautiful building on the banks of the Thames, which
faces the old Harrods depository. There is a green area at the front of
the building nicknamed Teletubby Hill, and a light and airy atrium where
we have ad-hoc meetings.

FACT FILE

- Betfair has 1008 employees, of whom at least 60 are marketers.

- The company's group revenue for the year to April 2007 was £181.9m.

- Its chief executive is David Yu; Mark Davies is managing director;
Oscar Nieboer is head of marketing.

- Betfair's headquarters are at Hammersmith Embankment, Winslow Road,
London W6.