ESPN promotes programming, digital execs

European sports broadcaster ESPN has promoted a number of programming and digital executives as part of a senior shake up.

The company has promoted Simon Potter and Charly Classen as part of the revamp.

Potter will take over leadership of the company’s programming and production group across Europe, Middle East and Africa. The former Sunset + Vine and Channel 4 exec was previously senior director, programming and production at ESPN.

Separately, Classen, who was senior director, digital media, commercial and marketing, ESPN, EMEA, will now oversee the company’s digital media portfolio. The former FremantleMedia exec jointed ESPN in 2009.

Both will report to Ross Hair, managing director, ESPN, EMEA.

“Our sports Programming, Production and Digital Media teams are the best in the business, producing unquestionably high-quality and creative content, whilst also meeting the daily challenges of acquisition, scheduling, product development and technical requirements that are at the heart of delivering this content to sports fans. Simon and Charly bring great insight, experience and leadership to these roles and our business will only benefit from their increased contribution going forward,” said Hair.