North American organisation DarkZero Esports has appointed Tommy Padula as its Head of Partnerships.
Padula will oversee DarkZero’s current partnership with esports apparel company Raven, which also includes a minority stake in the company.
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Padula joins the organisation from MGM Resorts, where he helped develop partnerships for the company’s Sports and Entertainment Division until he suffered an untimely car accident followed by pandemic-fueled layoffs.
However, despite these set-backs Padula healed from his injuries and found a new opportunity with the esports organisation.
Padula commented: “As soon as I recovered I was looking for a new opportunity but with Covid, suddenly a lot of my network was also looking for work. DarkZero’s search for a Head of Partnerships was a perfect opportunity for me because it combined my passions for entertainment, gaming and sports.”
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Zach Matula, CEO of DarkZero Esports commented: “Tommy brings with him years of experience working with the world’s largest and most prestigious brands. He will now lead the effort at DarkZero to build meaningful relationships with our growing list of partners in Las Vegas and the esports industry.”
Padula has also previously worked for Madison Square Garden, collaborating with a host of major sports brands. He also led a partnership with the NY Department of Education and launched the Las Vegas Aces in 2018 with the WMBA.
“I believe that there is an opportunity to partner with properties on The Strip and build a lasting relationship with some of the global brands housed in Las Vegas,” Padula added. “Vegas is the world capital of sports and entertainment and a home for incredible and unique brands. Esports is a global entertainment platform making it a natural fit for this city.”
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Recently, DarkZero opened an 8,000 square foot, seven-bedroom gaming house in September which houses the organisation’s players and content creators.
Hires from the realm of traditional sports have become more of a commonplace as the esports industry continues to mature. Professionals like Padula offer a wealth of knowledge in partnerships and fan engagement that esports organisations can learn from.
Esports Insider says: Sometimes in life, it feels like your whole world has crashed down and you’re lost until you realise you are right where you need to be. It’s inspiring to hear that Tommy Padula’s misfortune allowed him to be available for this new adventure and we wish him the best of luck.
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