ESL, the world’s largest independent esports company, today announced that Yvette Martinez-Rea has been named Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of ESL North America. Additionally, Craig Levine, previously CEO of North America, will take on a new global role as Global Chief Strategy Officer.
“ESL is continually working to reshape and refine our organization, products, and solutions to best meet the needs of players, fans, teams and publishers,” said Ralf Reichert, Global CEO and President, ESL. “In our commitment to the U.S. market, we are excited for our executive team in North America to further the company’s creative development and innovate within the growing landscape of the esports industry.”
As new CEO of ESL North America, Martinez-Rea will be responsible for working collaboratively with the company’s headquarters to build true global efficiencies, expand the U.S. product portfolio, and continue building the ESL brand in North America. For the past two years, Martinez-Rea served as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at ESL North America, where she oversaw business operations for the region. Martinez-Rea has more than 20 years of experience in senior business operations, having previously held executive positions at Violet Grey, Yahoo!, and United Online Inc.
In Levine’s new role as Global Chief Strategy Officer, he will work broadly across regions and partners at ESL. Levine will continue to be part of the Global Executive Management team, and have specific focus on global strategic partnerships and strengthening ESL’s digital platforms and technology, which engages fans and players worldwide.