Walt Disney Co.'s Chairman of Consumer Products and Interactive Media James Pitaro will be the new president of ESPN Inc. and co-chair of Disney Media Networks, the company said March 5.
Pitaro succeeds former ESPN President John Skipper, who abruptly resigned in December 2017 after acknowledging a substance addiction. Pitaro, who joined Disney in 2010, will report directly to Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger.
"Jimmy is a talented and dedicated leader with the right strategic vision, relentless drive and passion for sports required to lead the stellar ESPN team at this incredibly dynamic time," Iger said in a statement. "Jimmy forged his career at the intersection of technology, sports and media, and his vast experience and keen perspective will be invaluable in taking ESPN into the future."
