Perform hires former ESPN chief to drive expansion plans

Digital sports content and media group Perform has today (Tuesday) signalled its intention to step up its global expansion plans by hiring John Skipper, formerly president of US sports broadcaster ESPN, as executive chairman.

Skipper’s appointment comes after his high-profile exit from ESPN where he resigned from his post as president in December, citing a substance addiction problem.

Skipper (pictured), one of the most senior figures in the sports-media industry, joined ESPN in 1997 and had served as executive vice-president of content, prior to being promoted. He took the helm as ESPN president and co-chairman of Disney Media Networks in January 2012.

Skipper, based in New York, will now oversee all of Perform’s operations and strategy and report to the board. Simon Denyer, Perform Group’s founder, will continue as chief executive based in London. Perform said that today’s announcement reflects its strategy for global expansion across all divisions.

“Simon and his team have built an enormously impressive company, providing an excellent base to establish a global leadership position in the over-the-top sports subscription business, the clear future of sports delivery,” Skipper said.

“Perform Group's platform and expertise, coupled with its success in launching subscription services in Germany, Japan and Canada provides a model we intend to replicate around the world.”

Denyer added: “We are now preparing to push forward with the expansion of DAZN, our live and on-demand streaming service, in more major markets around the world.

“DAZN is revolutionising how fans watch their favourite sports. John is one of the most significant leaders in the history of our industry, and I am delighted that he has agreed to join me and the team to help take Perform to the next level of our ambitions.”