Fanatics has confirmed the appointment of Orlando Ashford as its first Chief People Officer as it aims to improve its relationships across its business.
An experienced HR professional, Ashford will be charged with working closely with Commerce, Collectibles and Betting & Gaming whilst managing HR for the firm.
Reporting to CEO Michael Rubin, he will oversee the HR team over culture, talent development, corporate communications, corporate social responsibility as well as all diversity and inclusion
Ashford will report to CFO Glenn H. Schiffman; for matters including total rewards and HR infrastructure, strategy, policies, and operations.
Rubin commented: “Culture is everything and our success is directly related to our incredible associates based around the world. As we continue to grow and expand, it becomes even more important to double down on organizational development, and I can’t think of a better person to lead this charge than Orlando.
“His vast experience running HR teams and his CEO-level experience, with people and culture being the primary lens for how he’s managed and operated his businesses, will help us further develop our ambitions to build one of the world’s most transformative and exciting brands.”
Prior to joining Fanatics, Ashford held senior HR roles across large firms including Marsh & McLennan Companies, The Coca-Cola Company, and Motorola, Inc.
Most recently, he was a Strategic Advisor to Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm, where he advised leaders on human capital and business issues.
“From the moment I met Michael Rubin and listened to his vision for expanding the Fanatics business, which was rooted in empowering the company’s incredible global workforce and creating a world-class culture, I knew that this was the perfect place for me,” said Ashford.
“Fanatics is a special company, one that I’ve long admired, where I can take my energy and expertise to further establish a diverse, platform-wide company culture comprised of the best and brightest people that want to be a part of a once-in-a-generation company.”
