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June 4-5, 2018
San Francisco, CA

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Moderator: Ben Fischer

Staff Writer, SBJ

Ben Fischer has covered Olympic and action sports for the SportsBusiness Journal since 2015, and has more recently tackled the emerging esports industry. He’s covered two Olympic Games, Los Angeles’ pursuit of the 2028 Olympics and the rush of sports investment dollars into competitive video gaming. Before turning to sports, he wrote about the technology and health care industries over a 12-year career. A  graduate of Kent State University and the University of Ilinois-Springfield, he and his wife live in Queens, NY.

Tuesday, June 05

FEATURED INTERVIEW: Visa

The most successful sponsors are those who develop and execute unforgettable, 360-degree campaigns while staying true to their brand promise. Andrew Cohen, Vice President, Global Brand and Creative, Visa will discuss how the company uses its expansive global sponsorship portfolio, including the Olympics, FIFA and more, to capture fans’ attention and loyalty in the digital age. He will also share how the company pilots innovative payment technology during the world’s largest sporting events to provide best-in-class experiences for fans worldwide.

Andrew Cohen, Vice President, Global Brand and Creative, Visa
Moderator: Ben Fischer, Staff Writer, SBJ
Wednesday, June 06

FEATURED INTERVIEW - Cloud9

Dan Fiden, President, Cloud9
Moderator: Ben Fischer, Staff Writer, SBJ

FEATURED INTERVIEW

Connecting with Fans On and Off the Playing Field. We will go one-on-one with former NFL running back DeAngelo Williams and discuss: • Social media, marketing and athlete endorsements. • Charitable initiatives, including raising awareness for breast cancer support.

DeAngelo Williams, Former NFL Running Back
Moderator: Ben Fischer, Staff Writer, SBJ

An In-Depth Look at Esports Sponsorship Activation, Original Content and Fan Engagement

Esports sponsors who invest time and money into activation — including original content — improve fan engagement with their brand and add value for their media and property partners. Panelists will discuss building authenticity with digital-native millennials through esports; empowering fans through highly relevant content; and creating meaningful sponsorship activation and community engagement plans. You’ll hear from:

Hunter Leigh, Head, Esports, Golden State Warriors
Kurt Melcher, Executive Director, Esports , Intersport
Nicole Pike, Global Research and Product Lead , Nielsen Esports
Kristen Salvatore, VP, Commercial Director of Esports, Twitch
Travis Wannlund, Senior Director of Esports, Red Bull North America
Moderator: Ben Fischer, Staff Writer, SBJ