Sinclair Names D2C Gamification Chief Business Officer

Sinclair Broadcast Group has hired J.R. McCabe for the newly-created role of chief business officer of D2C/Gamification. In this capacity, the company says, he will use “his extensive experience in creating and launching media assets that unlock new revenue streams and maximize consumer engagement.”

“Throughout his career, J.R. has excelled at staying ahead of consumer trends, bringing together highly-skilled innovators to create new, engaging digital and live experiences,” said Sinclair President-CEO Chris Ripley. “His skill at conceptualizing and launching new and innovative business models at the intersection of media, sports and gaming will be an important component of Sinclair’s efforts to expand in a rapidly growing area. We look forward to his leadership in driving Sinclair’s direct-to-consumer growth opportunities in the years ahead.”

McCabe brings more than 25 years of experience, having held roles in content creation, sales and marketing, product development, and leadership across the media industry. Most recently, he was chief business officer for a privately-held portfolio of gameplay and e-sports businesses, Poker Central & Estars Studios, where he drove business growth through forging strategic partnerships, launching a first-of-its-kind subscription channel, PokerGO, and establishing the vision for a technology center of excellence focused on data-driven decision-making.

Prior to that role, McCabe was the senior vice president, head of video for Time Inc., where he led the digital video business across 24 Time video brands, significantly accelerating the scale and reach of the company’s digital assets and launching groundbreaking, award-winning digital and TV content.

His experience also includes senior level positions with Meredith Corp., CBS Paramount and Universal Studios.

McCabe commented: “As a leader in the media space, with an unparalleled portfolio of assets, Sinclair’s strong content base and history of innovation and strategic thinking is the ideal match for my passion to build high-performing, high growth businesses in gaming. I look forward to the challenge of taking the potential of this great organization and helping it monetize the myriad opportunities the company has to drive future growth.”