VP, Sports Production - ESPN

Departmental Summary:

ESPN’s Sports Production team is a leader in the sports and entertainment industry, committed to delivering unforgettable experiences for fans and stakeholders. We pride ourselves on our innovative approach to event management and our dedication to excellence. Working at ESPN is unlike anything else. That’s because we’re always finding new ways to interact with fans – however and wherever they connect with sports. Every day we’re doing things that no one has done, all in a dynamic culture where we defy odds and continuously outdo ourselves. When you have the latest technology, game-changing ideas and world-class talent on your team, every day is extraordinary.

Position Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Vice President to lead the strategic planning, execution, and overall management of the 2027 Super Bowl event on behalf of ESPN. This pivotal role requires a visionary leader who can collaborate across The Walt Disney Company and ESPN, and with key external stakeholders to ensure a seamless and successful event that exceeds the high standards of the NFL Super Bowl brand. While Super Bowl is an immediate priority, this role could expand to include management of other premiere sport production events, including the College Football Playoff, NBA Finals, NFL Draft, NHL Stanley Cup finals, etc.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute the strategic vision and plan for the 2027 Super Bowl event, ensuring alignment with ESPN’s goals and objectives.
• Build and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including the NFL, team representatives, sponsors, and local government entities.
• Act as a strategic advisor to work effectively, transparently, and collaboratively with multiple internal ESPN and The Walt Disney Company cross-functional teams; ensure buy-in to key decisions, agreement on strategic direction, alignment of cross-functional resources and activities.
• Apply the highest-level of event production and technical expertise to contribute towards the development of multi-platform content in the lead up and execution of the event.
• Leverage the strength, creativity and innovation that are synonymous with the ESPN and The Walt Disney company brands to ensure the delivery of a best-in-class event production.
• Play a key role in the Production, Communication, Marketing, Creative and Synergy strategies, including branding, advertising, and public relations efforts to maximize visibility.
• Collaborate on the creative development, sales positioning and sponsor assets and platforms for all commercial partners.
• Manage and optimize the event budget, ensuring financial targets are met and resources are allocated efficiently. Identify opportunities for revenue generation and cost savings.
• Prepare for and respond to potential challenges that may arise during event planning and execution. Implement risk management strategies to ensure a successful event.
• Frequent travel to event sites, league offices, etc. to take part in high-priority client presentations where ideation is critical to relationship.
• Serve as an inspirational and influential leader, promote a culture of strong integrity, high performance, meaningful collaboration, and continuous improvement that values commitment to equity, learning, and quality.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 10 years of experience in complex event management in the sports entertainment industry. Minimum 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Has strong understanding of the real-time sports production processes and proven history of successfully managing large-scale events, particularly in the sports industry.
• Has a comprehensive and detailed understanding of the content production business across multiple programs and platforms; including the economic, commercial, and political issues affecting the industry.
• Strong understanding of content technology usage and applicability across multi platforms.
• An avid consumer of sports media and expert level knowledge of sports and sports history.
• Strong background in communications, strategic planning, marketing, and project management. 
• Knowledge of the differences in audiences across the globe and how to capitalize on those differences.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets.
• Experience building and managing relationships with senior business leaders, both internally and externally.
• Experience working cross-functionally with various teams in a matrixed environment, managing projects, and delivering results.
• Excellent communication and negotiation experience working with third-party partners in a fast-paced technology environment.
• Comfort with fast-paced environment, changing requirements, ambiguity, and problem solving.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a focus on results driven outcomes.
• Candidate should have a healthy appreciation of popular culture and the role of sports in pop culture and mainstream news.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Existing strong relationship and knowledge of NFL league and Media/Events staff and structure.
• In-depth understanding of ESPN’s IP portfolio and brands, market positioning and strategies.
• Deep understanding of DTC media/sports business.
• Gaming, betting, and/or fantasy sports strategic or operational knowledge.
• Familiar with the Disney IP portfolio and brands.

Required Education:

• College degree or equivalent.

Preferred Education:

• Master’s degree in business or similar field.

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