Jimmy Pitaro Talks Succeeding Bob Iger and Launching ESPN’s Streaming Service

ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro has nothing but high praise for Bob Iger, but that does not mean that he wants the ESPN CEO’s job.

At the start of ESPN media day today, Pitaro was asked if he would change his leadership strategy to position himself to succeed Iger.

Photo: Deadline

“I can say without hesitation that I’m sitting in my dream job,” he said. When asked if Disney’s succession process was altering his leadership style at ESPN, he replied, “Absolutely not. It has not changed anything.”

Pitaro Is Getting Ready to Transition ESPN To Streaming

Pitaro is leading ESPN at a unique time in the network’s history. With the streaming era now fully on hand, linear television is dying. Still, live sports have continued to deliver strong ratings and big advertising dollars. Pitaro, then, must keep ESPN linear afloat while also preparing to launch the network’s upcoming streaming service.

Photo: ESPN

“I feel just fortunate to be here. We are at a really important time at ESPN right now. Incredibly important. And it’s not just about Flagship [the network’s internal name for its direct-to-consumer ESPN product],” Pitaro explained. “But Flagship is probably the most important new initiative that we are going to be launching and I’m incredibly excited to be a part of it.”

An Unique Opportunity

With ESPN set to undergo the biggest transformation in its history, Pitaro has his work cut out for him. Still, if the executive can transition ESPN into the age of streaming while delivering a profitable business, Disney’s Board of Directors would have to take note.

Photo: ESPN Press Room

With his background in technology, his experience in media, and his relationships with heavy hitters in sports and entertainment, Pitaro will have made himself an awfully attractive candidate for Disney’s next CEO.

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