Activision Blizzard has appointed a new Call of Duty World League Head of Product. Johanna Faries, who has a decade’s worth of NFL experience, has joined the company’s esports leadership hierarchy in a coup for the competition.
The news was revealed in an Associated Press report, and detailed the exact role that Faries will hold. Faries will help with the strategic elements of the Call of Duty World League, including its business operations and product development. Speaking about the opportunity, Faries admitted that it was a good time to enter the esports world due to its growing popularity.
“To join a world class organization like Activision Blizzard in this role is as exciting as it is an honor,” she said in a statement. “With esports exploding in popularity, there is no doubt that Call of Duty is well positioned to be a major force in shaping the future of professional competition as we know it.”
Peter Vlastelica, President and Chief Executive Officer for Activision Blizzard, also expressed his delight as he welcomed Faries on board:
“The addition of Johanna to our leadership team demonstrates our commitment to maintaining a world class organization with the objective of further expanding our shared vision in esports,” Vlastelica explained. “Johanna has a proven track record throughout her tenure with the NFL of leading key business initiatives and driving fan engagement. She is a great addition to our organization and I look forward to working with her in her new role.”
The Call of Duty World League was founded in January 2016. The esports competition has given out $5 million in prize money during its first three tournaments, and its title is currently held by Evil Geniuses. The next competition will take place in Las Vegas from December 7 to December 9, with the winners of the Black Ops 4 tournament expected to walk away with around $250,000.
