Wesa Appoints Hershman As Executive Chairman
Former president of HBO sports division, Ken Hershman has been appointed as executive chairman and commissioner of the World eSports Association (WESA).
In addition, Hershman has been named chief executive of the media team of the organisation, WESA agency. He brings nearly 30 years of experience from the sports media sector and was selected by the board to replace Pietro Fringuelli, who was serving on an interim basis.
Hershman was appointed as president of HBO Sports in January 2012 after nearly 20 years as executive vice president and general manager of Showtime sports at pay-television broadcaster Showtime Networks. He resigned from his position with HBO in November 2015.
Founded in May 2016 by several teams from eSports and the ESL Pro League, WESA looks to professionalise the industry by introducing player representation, standardised regulations and revenue-sharing structures.
Hershman said: “eSports isn’t just the future – it’s the present. I’m excited about the challenge and confident my experience can help benefit everyone involved in WESA, including players, teams and leagues, as we work to build bridges and balance collective benefits.”
Ralf Reichert, WESA board director and co-founder and managing director, ESL said: “Now is the perfect time for WESA to introduce a dynamic and seasoned commissioner and we’re confident Ken is the right leader to take our organisation and sport to new heights.”
On 7th September, Sport Industry Breakfast Club will focus on eSports, where it will be discussed, dissected and debated at the members-only networking event. Memberships are available for the two remaining events in 2016, full information can be found here.
