Fanatics, the global sports merchandise retailer, has named Orlando Ashford as its new Chief People Officer. In this role, Ashford will be responsible for leading the company’s human resources, culture, and talent strategy across its three business divisions: commerce, collectibles, and betting & gaming. Based in New York City, Ashford will report directly to CEO Michael Rubin and CFO Glenn H. Schiffman.
Impressive HR Experience:
Orlando Ashford brings a wealth of experience in the field of human resources, having held senior HR roles with several Fortune 500 companies, including Marsh & McLennan, Coca-Cola, and Motorola. He also served as the President of Holland America Line, a well-known cruise ship company. Ashford’s vast experience in managing HR teams and his C-level experience make him a valuable addition to the Fanatics team.
Focus on Culture and Talent Strategy:
CEO Michael Rubin emphasizes the significance of company culture in Fanatics’ success and growth. As the company continues to expand its operations, there is a renewed focus on organizational development, making it essential to have a leader like Ashford who can drive the culture and talent strategy forward. With a primary lens on people and culture, Ashford’s leadership is expected to further establish a diverse and dynamic company culture at Fanatics.
Excitement for the Role:
Orlando Ashford expressed his excitement about joining Fanatics, citing the company’s unique vision and dedication to empowering its global workforce. He recognized Fanatics as a special company, admired for its achievements, and he is eager to contribute his energy and expertise to enhance the company’s culture and attract the best talents in the industry. Ashford believes that Fanatics presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to be part of a transformative and exciting brand.
Recent Appointments and Expansion:
Fanatics has been making significant appointments to strengthen its various divisions. Andrea Ellis was recently appointed as the CFO of Fanatics Betting & Gaming (FBG), the company’s online sports betting and igaming division. Her role involves supervising business and financial planning and analysis across FBG’s finance functions. The company has also received initial approval for a sports wagering facility operator license in Maryland.
The appointment of Orlando Ashford as Chief People Officer reflects Fanatics’ commitment to nurturing a thriving culture and attracting top talent to support its growth and expansion plans. With his extensive HR experience and passion for building transformative cultures, Ashford is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the company’s future success. As Fanatics continues to innovate and evolve, it aims to solidify its position as a leading global sports merchandise retailer and a prominent player in the sports betting and gaming industry.