ESPN has found its replacement for John Skipper who announced his unexpected resignation this past December. Jimmy Pitaro has been chosen by Disney Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger to become the company’s new president.
“Jimmy is a talented and dedicated leader with the right strategic vision, relentless drive and passion for sports required to lead the stellar ESPN team at this incredibly dynamic time,” said Iger. “Jimmy forged his career at the intersection of technology, sports and media, and his vast experience and keen perspective will be invaluable in taking ESPN into the future. I also want to extend my utmost thanks to George Bodenheimer for serving as Acting Chair of ESPN these past few months; he is a true industry pioneer and helped make ESPN the undisputed leader in sports.”
Pitaro is no stranger to the company. He has been with Disney since 2010, most recently serving as Chairman of Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media (DCPI), a role which has included overseeing the company’s creation of physical and digital products, experiences, and content across more than 100 categories. Four of the company’s most iconic brands—Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel—have been part of his main responsibilities.
Prior to joining Disney, Pitaro worked as vice president and head of Yahoo Media where he crafted the brand’s strategy and developed and executed growth driving initiatives for the company, including Yahoo Sports and Yahoo Music. While at the helm, Pitaro led those businesses to a number one ranking among online sports and music destinations. He also spent time as vice president of business affairs for Launch Media, Inc. and practiced law at several New York firms.
“As a passionate and lifelong sports fan, I am honored to be joining the ESPN team during such a pivotal time in its storied history,” added Pitaro. “The appetite for quality sports content across platforms has never been greater, and I am looking forward to working with the talented ESPN team as we continue to redefine the future fan experience.”
With Pitaro taking on the new opportunity Disney will begin searching for new leadership for Disney’s consumer products and interactive businesses.
Jason Barrett is the President and Founder of Barrett Media since the company was created in September 2015. Prior to its arrival, JB served as a sports radio programmer, launching brands such as 95.7 The Game in San Francisco, and 101 ESPN in St. Louis. He also spent time programming SportsTalk 950 in Philadelphia, 590 The Fan KFNS in St. Louis, and ESPN 1340/1390 in Poughkeepsie, NY. Jason also worked on-air and behind the scenes in local radio at 101.5 WPDH, WTBQ 1110AM, and WPYX 106.5. He also spent two years on the national stage, producing radio shows for ESPN Radio in Bristol, CT. Among them included the Dan Patrick Show, and GameNight.
You can find JB on Twitter @SportsRadioPD. He’s also reachable by email at Jason@BarrettMedia.com.
