Long-time Eurosport executive Jean-Thierry Augustin is to leave the Discovery-owned broadcaster.
For the past two years Augustin had been President, Sports & Olympics Development within Discovery Networks International, but had served the company in multiple roles for almost 15 years.
Jean-Briac Perrette, President and CEO, Discovery Networks International, highlighted Augustin’s contribution to the business: “Jean-Thierry is a savvy commercial leader and played a crucial role in developing our successful bid and commercial strategy for the Olympics, which is already exceeding expectations. On behalf of the international management team, I want to thank JT for his partnership and expert counsel as we have embarked on this ground-breaking journey to become the Home of the Olympics in Europe.”
After negotiating as part of the Discovery team in its rights acquisition deal with the International Olympic Committee he then negotiated a number of sub licensing deals with broadcasters including the BBC and TVP.
Augustin said: “I am proud to have played a central role in Discovery’s acquisition and integration of Eurosport, the development of the Eurosport Player and in the monetization of the Olympics. With the side of the business focused on the Olympics on track and proving profitable, I feel that my mission is accomplished, and that it is time to move onto new ventures. It has been an honor to have been part of such a dynamic business and team and would like to thank all of those across the business who have worked with me. Discovery continues to grow from strength to strength, which is testament to its strategic leadership.”
Discovery now holds the Olympic rights in over 50 territories.