Digital sports streaming service DAZN Group has hired Kevin Mayer as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors.
The former Disney executive will ‘provide strategic direction to DAZN’s strong leadership team as the company continues along its aggressive growth trajectory’, replacing the outgoing John Skipper, who will retain his seat on the board.
In his role at Disney, Mayer launched and ran the firm’s streaming businesses, including Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ and Hotstar, whilst overseeing global advertising, content, and channels sales. His CV also includes a stint as Chief Executive of TikTok and Chief Operating Officer of the social network’s parent company, ByteDance.
Mayer commented on his appointment: “As Chairman, I’m looking forward to partnering with the management team and my fellow directors to help DAZN build on its impressive track record of success in developing a truly global sports platform.
“Since I began working with Access Industries last year, I’ve been impressed with DAZN’s ambitions and ability to quickly grow from a new entrant to an important player in key markets throughout the world. I look forward to guiding DAZN’s strategic development into its next chapter.”
Former ESPN President Skipper leaves UK-based DAZN to manage the newly formed content company, Meadowlark Media, started in collaboration with ESPN host Dan Le Batard.
“I’m incredibly proud of what the team has accomplished over the past several years,” the 65-year-old remarked. “We’ve secured rights to the world’s premier sports leagues, dramatically increased subscriptions and revenues, and launched our platform in more than 200 countries and territories.
“It’s the ideal moment to transition the company into its next phase of growth. Having worked closely with Kevin at The Walt Disney Company for more than two decades, I can’t think of a better person to lead the DAZN Group Board of Directors.”
Mayer becomes the streaming platform’s third appointment this year to date, with Shay Segev and James Rushton named as Co-Chief Executive Officers earlier in January.
