This Week’s Movers in Sports Media & Marketing

This week in the sports media and marketing ecosystem, a new NFL CMO steps in to protect the shield, Amazon’s sports push continues, and a familiar face returns to New Jersey.

For job openings and more on who’s moving where, check out the Hashtag Sports Weekly roundup.

New NFL CMO Named, League Gears Up for Content Push

After CMO Dawn Hudson’s abrupt resignation in March, the NFL has finally found a new marketer to promote and protect the shield. Tim Ellis will fill the spot effective September 17th. During a seven-year stint with Activision Blizzard, Ellis proved his ability to market at the highest level, overseeing marketing efforts for Call of Duty’s jaw-dropping two-week $1B sales mark. In his new role at the NFL, Ellis will directly oversee research, content development, consumer engagement, advertising, promotions, marketing operations and branding.

Amazon Bets Big on Sports Video, Hires Former ESPN EVP

The online giant is getting ready for another season of Thursday Night Football (and EPL in 2019). In preparation, Amazon has tapped into ESPN’s talent pool to recruit one of the key members of their critically acclaimed “30 For 30” series. As Amazon’s new VP of Sports Video, Marie Donoghue will play a critical role in their live sports streaming push while also using her expertise in original programming to help the company grow a portfolio of long-form sports content.

Instagram Adds New Head of Sports

Instagram’s two-person tag team for sports just got one man bigger. The photo and video platform hired Dev Sethi as its Head of Sports. A veteran of the media industry, Sethi previously spent time at Gen Z and millennial publisher Whistle Sports, led engagement programs with leagues for YouTube, and most recently served as Chief of Staff at Complex Networks. He will remain in New York City.

Cubs Get Serious About Own Cable Network, Hire Former MSG Network President

The Cubs interest in launching their own TV network has gained momentum as of late. To move this longtime dream one step closer to becoming a reality, the franchise has appointed media veteran Mike McCarthy to lead the venture. From consulting on media strategy for Fox Sports Wisconsin where he was responsible for hiring famed sportscaster Gus Johnson to serving as Bucks COO, McCarthy has made a name for himself in the Midwest and looks to continue the trend.

Facebook Revamps its Communications Strategy, Hires CMO

The social network has been in the spotlight for the wrong reasons in recent months as data sharing practices with third-party apps have come under harsh scrutiny. With the hiring of Antonio Lucio, former HP marketing and communications officer, Facebook hopes to distance itself from a series of brand tarnishing episodes with a fresh voice. The move is unique as Facebook typically hires from within.

A Familiar Face Returns to New Jersey in an Unfamiliar Role

Former New Jersey Devils goalkeeper (and bonafide hockey legend) Martin Brodeur is rejoining the team as the new Executive Vice President of Business Development. Brodeur insists the position is limited strictly to business affairs and has no intentions of moving into a front office role.

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