Perform names Skipper as executive chairman

Perform Group has appointed John Skipper, the former president of US sports broadcaster ESPN, as it new executive chairman.

Based in New York, Skipper will oversee all of Perform’s operations and strategy and report directly to the digital sports content and media company’s board.

Skipper spent 20 years with ESPN, working across all areas of the business.

Simon Denyer, chief executive of Perform, said that the appointment reflects the company's strategy for global expansion across all its divisions.

“Perform is rapidly expanding its role in sports media with significant investments in the best content and our own platform,” Denyer said.

“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.

“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.”

Speaking about his new role, Skipper said: “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.

“Perform’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.”

Related article: Perform opens new UK headquarters in Leeds