Sign In

Ben Hurst

Sports, Entertainment, Media Executive | Digital & Tech Transformation | Advisory & Consulting

Professional Background

Ben Hurst is a results-oriented executive with a wealth of experience in the digital, sports, and entertainment industries. With nearly two decades of professional expertise to his name, he has carved out a niche for himself in driving growth and innovation across various platforms, including mobile, streaming, live events in sports and music, and emerging media technologies. His career reflects a strong capability to push brands forward, recognizing trends where consumers are headed next.

As someone who thrives with autonomy and responsibility, Ben is known for his ability to navigate complex environments with minimal oversight, ensuring that his teams produce outstanding results. He possesses a unique talent for developing collaborative relationships that lead to successful partnerships. His extensive knowledge in managing teams highlights his commitment to executing strategies that result in business success and audience engagement.

Education and Achievements

Ben Hurst holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the prestigious NYU Stern School of Business and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in General Business Administration and Management from the University of Michigan's Stephen M. Ross School of Business. These educational achievements have equipped him with foundational knowledge in business strategy and management, propelling his career forward and enhancing his effectiveness as a leader in the digital and entertainment sectors.

Notable Career Milestones

Throughout his career, Ben has held several significant positions that reflect his strategic acumen and leadership capabilities. He was formerly the Vice President of US Strategy & Operations at 888holdings, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the organization's operational strategies. His thought leadership was exemplified during his tenure as Senior Vice President and Head of Digital at Madison Square Garden Sports & Entertainment, allowing him to impact the rapidly evolving landscape of sports entertainment.

Ben also contributed to Viacom, where he had multiple roles, including SVP of Mobile and Emerging Platforms and Vice President of Strategy and Business Development. His strategic insights and operational expertise in these positions supported Viacom's initiatives in mobile growth and digital partnerships, carving pathways for successful product launches and market expansion.

Other notable roles include manager and director positions at MTV Networks, where he developed business strategies that underscored the importance of audience engagement in the digital age.

In addition, Ben served as a financial analyst at Goldman, Sachs & Co., laying the foundation for his extensive knowledge in business development and finance, critical for understanding investment strategies within the entertainment sector.

Ben's career is abundant with strategic roles that demonstrate his keen understanding of audience development and partnership management, setting a precedent for achieving business objectives within complex market frameworks.

Achievements and Recognition

Throughout his extensive career, Ben has been recognized for his ability to build and lead diverse teams, driving exceptional results through innovative strategies. His domain expertise in rapidly evolving areas like media monetization, digital media, and emerging platforms has made him a sought-after mentor and consultant. His stint as a mentor for Techstars reflects his commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders in the digital and media space.

Adding to his impressive credentials, Ben’s proficiency in adapting to advancements in technology—including NFTs, streaming platforms, and sports betting—illustrates his forward-thinking approach and understanding of market dynamics. His leadership practices are rooted in supporting businesses to navigate change effectively, thereby driving growth and sustainability.

Beyond the corporate world, Ben's passion for the digital and entertainment spheres elevates his professional journey. He is not only an expert in his field, but he also actively keeps abreast of industry innovations, positioning himself as a thought leader ready to tackle new challenges.

In summary, Ben Hurst is a dynamic and accomplished professional whose career is characterized by strategic insight, leadership in digital transformation, and a commitment to excellence. His educational background, combined with nearly twenty years of impactful experience, enable him to provide unparalleled guidance in navigating the intersection of digital media, entertainment, and audience engagement.

Related Questions

How did Ben Hurst develop his expertise in digital transformation within the sports and entertainment industry?
What strategies did Ben Hurst employ during his tenure at Madison Square Garden Sports & Entertainment to enhance audience engagement?
In what ways has Ben Hurst influenced the evolution of media monetization in the digital landscape?
How does Ben Hurst approach building collaborative relationships in his professional endeavors?
What insights has Ben Hurst gained from his roles at Viacom that have shaped his understanding of emerging platforms in media?
Ben Hurst
Add to my network

Location

New York, New York, United States