Melany M. February 8, 2019
Gen.G has announced Chris Park as the organization’s new CEO.
Chris Park was a senior vice-president for Major League Baseball prior to his appointment as the CEO of Gen.G. Park joins the organization after four years in charge of products and marketing at the MLB.
The move makes Park the latest executive to transition from the world of traditional sports to esports, a nascent industry in need of experienced talents as it continues to grow.
Kevin Chou, co-founder of Gen.G, was appointed as the esports organization’s executive chairman. From his new position, Chou will oversee the organization’s strategies, working closely with new hire Park towards Gen.G’s long-term objectives.
In addition to Park’s hiring, the organization also announced Kent Wakeford as new vice-chairman.
“After years of working in the traditional sports league, I have come to realize how much of an impact esports has brought to the sports industry,” Park said. “We will ensure Gen.G will not only be a formidable team in esports but also ensure our brand to be recognized as the 'Gold Standard' for esports."
Park will move to Los Angeles to work directly at Gen.G’s American headquarters, though he will first be spending time in Seoul, Korea to better get to know the organization there.
Kevin Chou spoke highly of Park in the announcement, touting his skills and the role that he would play in bringing forth new innovations within the Gen.G organization.
“For 2019, Gen.G has set high goals and expectations. Chris is the right person to lead Gen.G's future,” Park said.
Gen.G, previously known as KSV Esports, went through a rebranding process in 2018. The organization owns some of the most popular competitive teams across such games as League of Legends and Overwatch, and has continued to grow through varied developmental initiatives.