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This is a full time job

Location: Los Angeles, California, United States; Bristol, Connecticut, United States; New York, New York, United States

Job Summary:

As part of the Original Content Department, the Senior Director of Business Affairs will be responsible for supporting the structure, negotiation strategy and commercial relationships for ESPN’s original content portfolio; Specifically relating to the development, production, licensing and acquisition of in-house ESPN products, as well as the award-winning 30 for 30 series, ESPN Films and ESPN Originals. The position will report to the Vice President of Original Content and Business Affairs.

Responsibilities:
• Will be expected to exercise significant independent judgment, discretion and decision-making authority to directly evaluate, structure, negotiate and execute a wide range of high-visibility, high-cash value agreements, as well as the ongoing relationship and business management of those transactions.
• Work closely with executives within the Original Content Division and across The Walt Disney Company (including Legal, Business Affairs, Finance, Production, Marketing, Advertising Sales and Distribution) throughout all phases of the deal, including assembling and prioritizing deal points from various business units, communicating and advocating best practices, and acting at all times in support of the best interests of the company.
• Manage the business side of original content, tentpole events and additional areas of assigned book of business, such as: distribution rights and clearance issues that may arise in connection with the development, production, acquisition and exploitation of content across ESPN, The Walt Disney Company and third party platforms; Provide advice and support to senior executives on key business issues, rights issues and global content exploitation deals and strategies.
• Oversee the work of a Director and/or Senior Director responsible for strategic support of large overall deals and opportunities to expand the original content business.
• Assist with business affairs needs in other areas on an ad hoc basis.

Required qualifications
• Minimum 10 years of experience in legal and/or business affairs for a major media company, league, or other sports entity
• Experience structuring, negotiating, drafting and executing entertainment deals (e.g. production, acquisitions, distribution, digital and emerging businesses, etc.).
• Experience in digital media and/or direct to consumer space
• Superior analytical and writing skills and ability, along with strong business and financial acumen
• Strong negotiation skills, both as an individual and with a team
• The ability to develop strategies and think creatively. Strong problem-solving skills are required
• Exceptional organization, prioritization, and time management skills with the ability to juggle multiple high priority projects, with keen attention to detail
• Knowledge and understanding of digital media initiatives, platforms, products and services (broadcast, distribution models, platforms, etc.) and the entertainment industry in general
• Professional, confident and team player demeanor
• Ability to perform duties under minimal supervision while exercising discretion and sound and independent judgment
• Must excel in a fast-paced, results-oriented work environment

Education required
• Doctorate degree in law

#ESPNMedia

The hiring range for this position in New York, NY is $194,300 to $260,600 per year and in Los Angeles, CA is $185,500 to $248,900 per year. The basic salary actually offered will take into account internal equity and may also vary depending on the candidate’s geographical area, job-related knowledge, skills and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be offered as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial and/or other benefits, depending on the level and position being offered.