Octagon appoints Mao to new media rights business

The Octagon sports marketing agency has appointed William Mao to its new Octagon Media Rights Consulting business.

Mao was previously head of college sports at video-sharing website YouTube and also spent time as vice-president of digital for the MP & Silva agency.

Octagon launched the new venture in August, stating it would provide strategic consultation to major domestic and international rights holders, broadcasters, emerging distribution platforms and investors in the professional sports market.

Futures Sport & Entertainment, a consultancy owned by Interpublic Group, which is also Octagon’s parent company, is supporting the new business.

Daniel Cohen, senior vice-president of Octagon Media Rights Consulting, said: “In particular, William’s expertise in the digital and social media space will provide our clients a clear strategy on how to maximise the value of their content and platforms as they look toward the future.”

Mao will report to Cohen and will be based in Octagon’s New York office.