MSG Co. has hired Twitch VP/Esports NICK ALLEN as head of its competitive gaming division. He will be responsible for expanding MSG's presence in the space, as well as with operating Counter Logic Gaming, the team that MSG acquired a controlling stake in last month. Allen, who will also serve as CLG COO, will work alongside CLG Founder & President GEORGE "HOTSHOTGG" GEORGALLIDIS to find new ways to grow the brand, as well as form new marketing partnerships, develop media rights and create live ticketed events. Allen in his role with MSG will oversee broader esports initiatives, the company's relationships with game publishers, leagues and entities across the industry, including the nascent NBA2K esports league, as well as in the creation of esports events and content at MSG-owned venues. MSG Sports Exec VP JORDAN SOLOMON in a statement said, "Nick brings with him an extensive knowledge of esports and a deep set of relationships developed through overseeing some of the industry’s most popular events, and he has created initiatives that have continued to grow the gaming community. His vision for the esports space will be an invaluable asset." At Twitch, Allen was responsible for executing the streaming site’s global esports strategy, negotiating developer partnerships and building and managing its esports team, which handled league operations and marketing esports programs and initiatives. Previously, he was the Riot Games Esports Operations Manager. Allen will begin his new role with MSG on Oct. 2.
