Wolff promoted as ESPN senior executive vice-president

by Sam Matthews,, Brand Republic 12-Nov-04, 11:00

LONDON – ESPN International has promoted Russell Wolff to senior vice-president and managing director from his role as executive vice president and managing director at the broadcaster.

Wolff will continue to oversee ESPN's business outside of the US including TV, radio, print, consumer products and event management, as well as working with domestic groups to grow the ESPN brand abroad by launching new businesses and existing franchises.

Wolff first joined the Disney-owned ESPN in 1997 as vice-president and was promoted to executive vice-president and managing director in 2002. During his time, Wolff has overseen ESPN International take over 30 television networks, as well as radio and internet ventures. He has also been instrumental in extending the brand to more than 190 countries and territories in the past five years.

George Bodenheimer, ESPN and ABC Sports president, said: "Russell has done a tremendous job in developing our international business and helping ESPN to grow its reach and relevance to sports fans around the world.

"He has demonstrated impressive leadership in driving ESPN's growth in markets outside of the US."

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