NBA 2K League, the North American esports league in basketball game franchise NBA 2K, has announced Andrew Perlmutter as its first-ever CEO.
Perlmutter will oversee the league’s business and competition operations, and report to a newly-created Board of Directors that includes representatives from the NBA, Take-Two Interactive and 2K Games.
The news of a new CEO comes a short time after former NBA 2K League President, Brendan Donohue, announced his departure from the esports league. Donohue will remain at the company until October 31st, with Perlmutter starting as CEO on October 2nd. This goes in line with the previously announced plan for Donohue to help the transition to the new leadership structure.
The new CEO will report to a Board of Directors which includes NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, NBA President of Global Partnerships Salvatore LaRocca, Chairman & CEO of Take-Two Interactive Strauss Zelnick and Chief Operating Officer of 2K Games Phil Dixon. According to the League, Perlmutter will be tasked with the league’s global expansion, partnerships, media and content distribution, community engagement and grassroots development.
Unlike Brendan Donohue, Andrew Perlmutter does not come from a sports background, specialising in business strategy and revenue growth across several industries during his career.
Perlmutter notably worked as a Chief Strategy Officer for data centre and technology company ITRenew. He also held the positions of General Manager and Vice President of Operations for Newsweek and The Daily Beast.
Chief Operating Officer of 2K Games Phil Dixon commented on the new CEO: “The NBA 2K League’s success is built on the engaged community of viewers, players, and teams who all share a common passion for NBA 2K. Andrew’s experience in leading revenue growth and his seasoned business instincts will be an exciting asset as we continue to grow and expand the league.”
