Suggestions
George Barrios
Founder and Co-CEO, Isos Capital Management
Professional Background
George Barrios is a renowned public company executive, known for his significant contributions to the transformation of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) into a leading multi-platform media enterprise. With extensive experience in finance, strategy, and operations, George has played a pivotal role in WWE's success in leveraging traditional, digital, social, and direct-to-consumer media. His visionary leadership co-led the development, launch, and operation of WWE Network, the company's award-winning subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) service, which boasts an impressive subscriber base of over 1.5 million, ranking as the #2 branded SVOD service in the U.S. This accomplishment highlights his strategic foresight and his expertise in navigating the complex media landscape.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the media industry, George was ranked among the top three Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) in the media sector by Institutional Investor in their prestigious All-America Executive team rankings in 2017. He joined WWE in 2008 as its Chief Financial and Strategy Officer, and under his leadership, the organization has flourished, making him a respected figure within the corporate world.
Before his impactful tenure at WWE, George held various esteemed positions that further shaped his career. He served as the Founder and Co-CEO of Isos Capital Management, where he honed his investment skills and financial acumen. His commitment to fostering a sense of community extended to his role as a National Board Member at Make-A-Wish America, exemplifying his dedication to philanthropic endeavors. Furthermore, he has held influential roles on the boards of notable organizations, including Tout.
George's career trajectory also includes impactful experiences at The New York Times Company, where he served as both Vice President and Treasurer as well as CFO for the New England Media Group. His tenure involved overseeing the financial operations of one of the most trusted names in journalism, refining his strategic management abilities in a rapidly changing media landscape. Additionally, he brought a wealth of experience from his previous roles as President and COO at Netsilicon, Division CFO and General Manager at Praxair Semiconductor Materials, and Finance Manager positions at both Praxair and HBO. This breadth of experience underscores George's comprehensive understanding of finance and operations across various industries, making him a formidable leader in his field.
Education and Achievements
George Barrios earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and later pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Finance and Accounting, both from the University of Connecticut. His academic background provided him with a solid foundation in economic principles and financial strategies, critical for his success in high-level executive roles.
His impressive leadership and innovative thinking have garnered numerous accolades and recognition throughout his career. George's strategic initiatives and contributions to WWE's transformation into a multi-platform media powerhouse have been vital in establishing the company's position as a leading player in the industry. His ability to blend operational excellence with financial strategy allows him to drive sustainable growth and facilitate significant changes in the organizations he has been part of.
Notable Achievements
- WWE Network Development: Co-led the strategic development and operational implementation of WWE Network, achieving over 1.5 million subscribers.
- Top CFO Recognition: Ranked among the top three CFOs in the media industry by Institutional Investor in 2017.
- Extensive Corporate Leadership: Held senior roles including Founder and Co-CEO of Isos Capital Management, Vice President and Treasurer at The New York Times Company, and President at Netsilicon.
- Board Memberships: Contributed valuable insights and governance as a National Board Member at Make-A-Wish America and a Board Member at Tout.
- Finance Leadership: Extensive experience in various finance roles at Praxair and HBO, showcasing his financial management skills across different sectors.
