Discovery Communications has announced a series of appointments at Eurosport, as the broadcaster prepares to broadcast the 2018 Olympic Games.
Three of five areas have already been filled; Commercialisation will be led by Jean-Thierry Augustin; Operations & Planning by David Schafer and Olympic Relations & Coordination by Géraldine Filiol. Posts in Engineering/Technology and Production are still to be filled.
“These talented leaders will support our ambition for Eurosport to be the preferred destination for sports fans. As we continue to invest in the programming, promotion and production values for Eurosport across all platforms, this team will deliver on our new brand promise to “Fuel Your Passion” and immerse fans in the greatest sports moments,” said Peter Hutton, CEO, Eurosport.
Augustin has been appointed President, Sports Development & Olympic Commercialization. He adds the Olympic Games to his current remit and in his new position, Augustin will continue to report to JB Perrette and work closely with Peter Hutton and Discovery’s management teams across Europe.
“Securing the TV and multiplatform broadcast rights for the Olympic Games is a transformational moment for Discovery and Eurosport. The Olympic Games are the premier sporting event in the world, and we look forward to working with our commercial partners to achieve their business objectives, and ensure the Olympic Games reach more people, across more screens, than ever before,” said Augustin
David Schafer has been named Senior Vice President of Olympic Operations and Planning. Reporting to Peter Hutton, Schafer will be responsible for the planning and successful operation of Olympic Games coverage, lead the relationship with Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS) and oversee smooth execution on all linear and digital platforms across Europe. Schafer brings vast experience in sports production and Olympic Games broadcasting, having played a role in Olympic operations at NBC. He’s won three Emmy awards for his work in Beijing, London and Sochi. Previously, Schafer led Discovery Networks International’s digital media business, where he has been responsible for OTT and TVE products, network websites and content syndication.
Géraldine Filiol has been appointed as Vice President Olympic Relations and Project Coordination. Filiol’s existing role as Eurosport’s Head of Marketing, Communications and External Relations has been split into two roles to provide greater focus on these business functions as Eurosport continues to super-charge its growth and re-ignite the brand to connect with fans.
Eurosport has secured all TV and multiplatform broadcast rights to the Games in Europe between 2018-2014. Although Eurosport has covered the games for many years, this is the first time it has taken a lead role, squeezing out the region’s public service broadcasters.
