Nathalia Barros, who earned her master’s degree from Florida International University’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management in 2025, is currently working with Inter Miami CF in member services. Her career has taken her from consulting in Brazil at Ernst & Young to various roles in the sports and entertainment industry in the United States.
Barros recently returned to FIU to share her experiences with students. She spoke about how her background in consulting helped her understand business strategy and decision-making, which later influenced her work in hospitality and sports management. She also discussed her transition into the U.S. sports sector, including a stint with LA Galaxy as a sales representative before joining Inter Miami CF.
Describing her current responsibilities, Barros said she focuses on enhancing the experience for season ticket holders and building relationships with corporate partners through customized hospitality solutions. “I work closely with members who have believed in the club from the very beginning. I try to elevate their experience by creating moments fans never forget, like kids walking onto the field with players or holding the center-circle flag. I partner with corporate leaders who use hospitality as an extension of their business strategy. Together, we design and customize premium spaces that reflect their brands, host clients and build meaningful relationships. Every detail matters, and that balance of strategy, creativity and human connection is what makes the work both demanding and deeply rewarding.”
Reflecting on how FIU influenced her perspective on hospitality, Barros said: “To me, hospitality is about making people feel seen and part of something special. It’s the ability to read a room, anticipate needs and make people feel understood. Service is skill. Hospitality is intention. That philosophy is exactly why FIU’s master’s in hospitality resonated with me. The program approaches hospitality as a strategic discipline, not just an operational one. During my studies, I realized I was already living these principles in my professional work.”
Barros noted that soccer’s growing popularity in the United States brings new expectations for fan experiences compared to those abroad: “Soccer in the U.S. is moving from being an emerging sport to becoming a global platform, with MLS expansion, international ownership, global players and the World Cup on the horizon.” She added that cities like Miami can leverage this moment as cultural connectors through both sports events and year-round engagement.
The upcoming opening of Miami Freedom Park—described by Barros as a 131-acre district near Miami International Airport—is expected to play a significant role by offering programming beyond matches: “This isn’t just about hosting matches. It’s about creating a destination that lives 365 days a year and connects sports with the daily life of a city.” The project aims to serve as an example of how sports can drive economic growth and foster cultural exchange.
Barros has maintained connections with FIU students by organizing industry panels featuring leaders involved in developing Miami Freedom Park, participating in podcasts discussing careers within soccer business management for FIU’s American Marketing Association student chapter, and guest lecturing for classes taught by Professor Steven Moll on topics related to sport management.
She offered advice for students pursuing careers at senior levels within hospitality: stay curious when facing new challenges; demonstrate energy; engage actively; create momentum; practice gratitude even during busy periods because it reflects meaningful progress toward personal goals.
“I love it,” Barros said regarding her current position at Inter Miami CF. “Just being over there and in the middle of all the excitement.”
