The Impact of Music with Hilary Bunker

1. Can you tell us a bit about your current role and what motivated you to pursue a career in video editing and production within the sports industry?

I'm currently the Content Liaison Manager at FIFA for Content Production, following five years as an editor in the FIFA Films department.

FIFA Content Production is responsible for the capture, archive, and commercialisation of audio-visual images of all FIFA-related footage, covering some of the world’s biggest and most thrilling football events.

From a young age, I knew I wanted to do something that combined music, media, and my passion for sport and live events. Back then, I didn't know what kind of job would allow me to bring all those interests together. After university, I tried different paths but always found ways to redirect myself toward what truly inspired and motivated me-whether by injecting creativity and music into roles that didn't necessarily require it, or by taking bold career steps to pivot into opportunities that aligned with what excited me.

I was trained in France as a news video journalist, which I believe was the best possible foundation-high stakes, high pressure, and demands quick turnarounds. You learn to master your skills under the toughest conditions. But I quickly realised I wanted to focus on sports and live events, and I eventually found my way into working with Rugby Union in the UK.

 

2. As a video editor, what role does music play when you’re working on an edit and how do you use music to enhance the projects you work on?

Anyone who knows me knows how much music means to me, and how central it is to my editing process. Music is everything—it’s often step one (okay, maybe step two after the initial brief or idea). A single track can spark the entire creative direction of a piece.

The pace, the rhythm, the drop, the beat - all play a role in creating the right mood and emotion. Music has the power to elevate even the most iconic sporting moments and make them truly unforgettable. That's where the "wow" factor often comes from.

I still remember a 2016 BT Sport edit using a remix of Chase and Status feat. Tom Grennan – “All Goes Wrong.” I had just started working as a video journalist and editor, and it completely blew me away. The edit was so simple and clever, and the music gave me goosebumps. I remember thinking: That’s what I want to do. I want to make people feel something—with the stories I have to tell. Check out the video below.

 

3. Do you have a favourite project that you are most proud of?

I've had the chance to work on a wide range of projects that have left a mark on me-from harrowing to challenging to truly exciting. Being trained in news, moving into freelance sports and music storytelling, and then landing at FIFA has been a journey full of variety.

One project I'm especially proud of is a documentary we created following the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup. It wasn't just about the tournament or the football-it also addressed the broader issues surrounding the US Women's Team at the time. Every shot, sound bite, and music choice was intentional and designed to amplify these important stories and emotions. It felt amazing to be part of something growing so quickly and to contribute to telling powerful, relevant stories.

4. What are some of the biggest challenges you have experienced working in your field, and how have you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges has been dealing with doubt-both from others and from myself. Knowing your worth is vital. Surround yourself with people who believe in you so that when you doubt yourself, they can remind you of what you're capable of. That support is everything.

 

5. Do you think female representation in sports has evolved, and how would you describe your experience as a woman working in the industry?

It's definitely evolved. It's no longer unusual to see women on the sidelines with cameras or in editing suites, which is great. But that doesn't mean the job's done-there's still a long way to go.

I've been fortunate to have strong female mentors who gave me confidence and helped me ignore doubts about being the only woman in the room or feeling like a spectacle. I experienced moments when I was overlooked or had to fight harder to be heard. But being a woman is an asset. Different perspectives are constantly needed and then reflected in the content and the way we cover sports. Otherwise, how will content styles ever develop?

 

6. What advice would you give to other women looking to pursue a career in sports broadcasting and production?

• Don't doubt your skill set, ambition, or capacity
  If you find yourself as one of only two women in a press room full of journalists all vying for interviews-hold your ground. You belong there.
• Reach out
  Connecting with people in the industry that you admire-male or female-is a strength. Ask how they got where they are. Seek advice, mentorship, and guidance. If you're driven and ambitious, it will shine through.
• Find your niche
  One of my first projects for FIFA was the U-20 Women's World Cup in 2018. They needed a woman who could film, edit, produce, and speak both French and English. Sometimes, for every 100 applicants, 99 might be men-but if you're the one who stands out, use that to your advantage. Being a woman isn't a disadvantage-treat it as a strength.
  
   

Check Out Our Music For Sport