ESL UK appoints ex-Warner Bros as Managing Director

The ESL has appointed Spike Laurie as business partner and co-Managing Director of their UK operations.

Laurie, who previously comes from Warner Bros., worked as retention and engagement manager there for three years, on titles such as Shadow of Mordor and Batman: Arkham Knight.

He will be joining James Dean, the current Managing Director of ESL UK, who worked with Laurie previously in the same capacity at WB.

"It has proven to be a tough task to find the right person for the role,” said Dean. "[Laurie] has a fantastic vision for marketing and delivers superb user experiences. The fit couldn’t be better for UK esports and the growth of ESL’s UK office.”

Laurie begins work at the company’s UK offices on Monday, but will also be assisting the German headquarters with international business.

"It’s a huge privilege to be joining ESL: the company that’s setting the global gold standard for esports competition and entertainment,” said Laurie.

To make the most of this great opportunity, my focus will be on expanding the company’s already impressive impact in the fast growing UK market, and through strategic international executions.”