Jamie Horowitz is no stranger to sports entertainment. The media veteran, who has previously overseen DAZN’s programming, social media, and editorial content in a role as executive vice president of global content, was recently named executive vice president of development and digital at WWE. With years of experience as a leader in entertainment planning and design, his new role with professional wrestling will help inject new creative perspectives in a brand already renowned for its performative presentations.
How Jamie Horowitz Got Started in Sports Entertainment
A graduate from Amherst College, Jamie Horowitz’s love of sports dates back to his time as a student where he founded the school’s sports magazine, SportsAmherst and as an athlete – he played point guard for the Amherst basketball team. With an aptitude for communications and media, he found himself in a number of roles as a writer, researcher, and producer for major networks. Early in his career, Horowitz made a name for himself as a researcher and writer for NBC Sports and then at ESPN where he held a number of positions, most notably as vice president of original programming and production.
His career growth continued within sports entertainment as he became president of national networks at Fox Sports. Most recently, his tenure with DAZN as EVP of content allowed him to demonstrate his understanding of how to balance audience demand with content generation in novel ways.
Horowitz to Add Flair and New Direction for WWE Digital Development
With WWE, Jamie Horowitz promises to deliver the same high caliber of direction when it comes to content for both network and digital development. The newly created role of executive vice president of development and digital includes the oversight of the company’s scripted and unscripted programming based primarily out of WWE Studios in Los Angeles. The leadership changes were also paired with updates to the company’s board of directors including the addition of Steve Koonin, Connor Schell, and Nick Khan, all of whom have a broad experience in the media and entertainment industry.
Horowitz is expected to help inject new growth and advancement for WWE’s media presence. He has previously helped launch and expand the reach of FS1, including bringing on board notable personalities such as Colin Cowherd and Skip Bayless. His approach has empowered stars who demonstrate strong opinions and who are willing and able to create conversations around the most relevant and popular topics. WWE is eager to capitalize on his innovative sports programming and the fresh creative perspective he brings to content. WWE fans can expect refreshed engagement on social media and digital platforms as Horowitz has a track record of producing content for the most avid consumers. Horowitz has previously shown his ability to engage sports media and fans through his influence on talk programming with ESPN, creating shows including First Take, Sports Nation, and Numbers Never Lie that embraced debate on the shows and across social media.
Leadership Changes Reflect WWE’s Commitment to Evolving and Engaging with Audiences
Signing Jamie Horowitz supports WWE’s shifting strategy to create a network with an updated media stance. The brand recently signed a licensing deal with Peacock for streaming its on-demand content, making it easier for fans to access their programming without the hassle of signing up for another service offering. In an effort to make content more accessible and engaging, Horowitz will be expected to continue making connections with fans while also spearheading new programs and films. This follows in his pattern of developing original network programming – when he was running content at DAZN, he teamed up with Sylvester Stallone to create documentary content, partnered with LeBron James to do unscripted series, and licensed Pat McAfee’s hit show.
WWE’s refreshed senior leadership team is just one indicator of the brand’s dedication to providing its fan base with a variety of relevant, fresh, and engaging content. Adding Jamie Horowitz to the mix promises to help the company evolve its presence in the entertainment industry with a modern take. The hiring was just one sign from the WWE’s owners that they remain committed to consolidating operations and upgrading its digital team and offerings for the better.
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