Driessen started at ESPN in ’85 as the net’s controller and was promoted to CFO in ’94 ESPN IMAGES
CHRISTINE DRIESSEN, one of the most influential behind-the-scenes execs in sports, announced her retirement plans after a 33-year run at ESPN. Driessen, who has been ESPN CFO for the past 23 years, officially will step down in January, though she will cede day-to-day management of her role to ESPN President JIMMY PITARO on July 1. ESPN has started a search to find Driessen’s replacement. “While this decision was made months ago and I am thrilled for what this means for Christine and her family, I am equally sad that we will not have more time to work together,” Pitaro wrote in an email sent to employees yesterday. Driessen started at ESPN in ’85 as the net’s controller. She was promoted to CFO in ’94 and is the longest-serving member on the ESPN BOD. For decades, ESPN execs would talk about Driessen’s importance to the company. In his email, Pitaro wrote, “She has helped guide every significant business decision and every major negotiation (domestically and internationally) in which the company has engaged.”
PLENTY OF LOVE: ESPN VP/Corporate Communications Katina Arnold tweeted, "A top business person in sports, incredible mentor & friend." Citadel Communications President & COO Ray Cole: "This pioneering female executive has been a wonderful colleague...and even better friend." ESPN Senior VP/Corporate Communications Chris LaPlaca tweeted, "Will truly miss her. She’s been a strong and savvy business leader and has mentored so many women in our company." ESPN Senior Dir of Communications Bill Hofheimer: "A name most sports fans don't know, she has been involved in so many major deals and important decisions. She has also been a great mentor to many." ESPN VP/Communications Mike Soltys added, "One of the top women executives in TV Sports history."
