ESL, the world’s largest esports company, is excited to announce that Thomas Schmidt is joining the ESL executive team as Chief Commercial Officer effective April 1, 2019.

Thomas has a 16-year track record in developing the UEFA Champions League commercialization and distribution. He joined ESL as a Non-Executive Board Member of ESL in October 2018 working with the team from a strategic angle. In his new role as Chief Commercial Officer, Schmidt will be globally responsible to manage ESL Sales teams and expand all existing and new brand partners and media distribution revenue streams.

“Over the past few years, esports enjoyed an explosive growth in popularity all around the world. However, the commercial development of esports is still in its infancy and is just starting to realize its full potential. ESL is the global powerhouse of esports and in my view best placed to drive the sport and lead its commercial direction. I’m delighted to join ESLs vibrant team of ambitious and talented people,” said Thomas Schmidt, newly appointed Chief Commercial Officer, ESL.

“We are pleased to welcome an experienced and innovative leader as Thomas to the ESL team. Thomas will help us accelerate our ambitious plans to grow ESL business across the globe, delivering high value services to our customers and further build a highly professional commercial team. Thomas is also someone who shares our culture and values and who is a great fit to the team,” said David Neichel, co-CEO, ESL.

“The esports industry is expected to continue to grow significantly over the next several years, reaching USD $1.663 billion revenue by 2021. This represents an 85 percent increase compared to today according to the Newzoo September 2018 market report update. ESL will continue and solidify its global leadership in the industry as the go-to brand of choice for esports.