George BodenheimerPresident, ESPN, Inc. and ABC Sports,
Co-Chairman, Disney Media Networks
A cable industry pioneer, George Bodenheimer rose through the ranks to become ESPN's fifth president in 1998. Since then, he has led the company to unprecedented growth with his sharp focus on creativity and cutting-edge innovation, his emphasis on always enhancing value for ESPN's fans and business partners, and his belief in teamwork. In 2003, he was also appointed president of ABC Sports, and in April 2004, the role of Disney Media Networks' co-chairman was added to Bodenheimer's responsibilities, encompassing strategic planning for Disney's media assets. As president of ESPN, Inc., Bodenheimer leads one of the world's premier brands with more than 50 business entities, including 7 domestic television networks; 29 international television networks; ESPN and ESPN2 HD simulcast services in high-definition; ESPN Regional Television; ESPN.com; ESPN Radio; ESPN The Magazine and books; SportsTicker; the ESPN Zones (sports-themed restaurants); and other growing new businesses including ESPN360 (Broadband), Mobile ESPN (wireless), ESPN Interactive, ESPN on Demand and ESPN Pay-Per-View. Bodenheimer's vision has led to numerous company and industry-leading innovations in integrated sales and marketing, original programming, rights and business acquisitions, international expansion and new technologies such as ESPN and ESPN2 HD, the Digital Center, ESPN360 and Mobile ESPN. Bodenheimer joined ESPN in January 1981 as a driver in the mailroom. He became executive vice president of sales and marketing in 1996. He earned a bachelor's degree in economics from Denison in 1980.