Genius Sports has confirmed the appointment of Robert J. Bach as an independent director of the NYSE-listed sports data, media, and betting technology group.
An expert in innovation and building mass-market technology platforms, Bach is the former President of Microsoft’s Entertainment Division, where he oversaw the Xbox business.
He is credited as the first Xbox officer at Microsoft, charged with launching the technology giant’s first Xbox console in 2001, the platform that allowed Microsoft to enter and lead the multi-billion-dollar global games market.
Under his leadership, Xbox transformed into a brand synonymous with entertainment, with his team driving the evolution of the gaming console into a comprehensive multimedia hub offering streaming services and digital downloads.
As President of Microsoft’s Entertainment & Devices Division, Robbie leveraged his expertise to integrate entertainment across gaming, music, video, and mobile, launching iconic products such as Zune and Windows Phone.
Mark Locke, CEO of Genius Sports, said: “I am delighted to welcome Robbie Bach to our Board. I know his proven expertise in driving consumer-focused innovation in the technology and entertainment industries will be an invaluable asset. This level of insight and expertise will undoubtedly help accelerate our efforts to revolutionize how sports content is understood, consumed, and experienced globally.”
Bach joins Genius Sports as the NYSE technology group aims to declare its return to profitable earnings since its New York IPO listing in 2021.
Robbie Bach, newly appointed Board Director, added: “Genius Sports is experiencing exceptional growth through its advanced technology and global reach. I am excited to have this opportunity to collaborate with such a talented and visionary team, and I look forward to supporting Genius’ continued success and innovation.”