100 Thieves, the organisation founded and owned by Matt “Nadeshot” Haag, has brought John Robinson on board as its first President and Chief Operating Officer.
Robinson will report to Nadeshot and serve on 100 Thieves’ board of directors – predominately focusing on growing monetisation capabilities and partnerships for the organisation.
First announced in a tweet, this is just another new development for 100 Thieves. Initially starting as a lifestyle and clothing brand run by Nadeshot, the organisation entered the Call of Duty scene during Black Ops II before exiting on July 7, 2016, following a last place finish in the second season of the Call of Duty World League.
Discussing the new hire, Nadeshot tweeted that he was “thrilled to announce one of the most important pieces we’ve added to 100 Thieves this year. John’s passion for esports paired with his deep business experience makes him the perfect partner for me. We’ll be working side by side to take 100T to new heights.”
More recently, 100 Thieves joined the North American League of Legends Championship Series (NA LCS) after receiving an investment from Dan Gilbert, Cleveland Cavaliers, and his venture capital firms. The organisation also joined the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive competitive scene by acquiring the ex-Immortals roster. It then withdrew from the 2018 season on January 31 due to roster and visa complications.
We're thrilled to share that @rohnjobinson has joined 100 Thieves as our President & Chief Operating Officer. Nadeshot and John make an incredible team and we could not be more excited for the years to come under their leadership. Please give John a warm welcome! #100T pic.twitter.com/eTNliA2ucS
— 100 Thieves (@100Thieves) February 8, 2018
Robinson previously worked at Electronic Arts, Kexon, and Bessemer Venture Partners. This isn’t the only high-profile acquisition made by an esports organisation this week: former CEO of Mercedes Formula One, Nick Fry, just joined FNATIC as Head of Commercial Strategy.
Esports Insider says: This is another encouraging step for esports with a successful, proven businessman joining a professional organisation. 100 Thieves has proven itself as a top contender in League of Legends already, which should help Robinson with his aim of increasing monetisation and acquiring new partnerships.