It’s big news for esports org and Dota 2 stalwarts OG, who have appointed Daniel Sanders as their new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
The former Tencent and Dignitas executive brings years of experience to the role, which will see him shaping the organization’s direction and success.
Daniel Sanders as OG Esports’ CEO (Image credit: OG Esports)
Team OG’s announcement
According to team OG’s official announcement, Sanders has two decades of experience within the Esports industry, which includes roles in major Esports companies, such as Dignitas, Tencent Games and Red Bull. Additionally, Daniel’s presence in OG started two years ago, when he played a key role as OG’s chief commercial officer (CCO).
As such, it’s evident that Sanders has both the credentials and experience to back up his background coming into his new role as CEO of OG Esports. Sanders had some brief words on his appointment as new CEO.
“I’m incredibly proud and honoured to be asked to lead OG”.
He also added that OG’s “positive philosophy” resonates with his own vision in the Esports industry. Considering how OG is arguably one of the most powerful brands in Esports, and one that promotes positivity in all things, it’s an exciting time for both the new CEO and OG.
Team OG’s roots
What was started by a couple passionate Dota 2 players is now an esports powerhouse, as OG has becoming one of the most successful teams in all of esports, which many in the industry aspire to match.
However, if it wasn’t for the competative success, fans and perseverance that the early founders of OG had, the org might not have made it this far. After all, the esports industry, especially Dota 2, was never financially rewarding for the majority of teams and players. And now, more than ever, since the International Championships are seeing lower prize pools.
Without the brand sponsorships and partnerships that OG has, due to its reputation, the could potentially struggle. And given that OG hasn’t exactly had huge amounts of success recently, leading the team is a difficult role to step into.
Why did OG Esports appoint a new CEO?
For the uninitiated, the former CEO of OG Esports, J.M.R. Luna, left the org in 2023. Hence, it’s been two years OG operated without a formally appointed CEO, with Ceb and N0tail taking the wheel during the interim.
Daniel’s appointment as CEO of OG Esports could mark a significant step in reviving their operations and management to its former glory. And perhaps we are already starting to see Daniel’s vision in having a viable and strong Dota 2 team with the recent signing of Yap “xNova” Jian Wei.