Discovery Communications has appointed Ralph Riviera to the newly created role of Managing Director, Eurosport Digital. He will start on September 26 in London, reporting directly to Michael Lang, Senior Vice President of International Development and Digital Content at Discovery Communications, and closely collaborating with Peter Hutton, CEO of Eurosport.

New Role in Discovery’s Structure

Riviera will be responsible for advancing Eurosport in the digital space—primarily the Eurosport.com platform, the continent's largest sports news website, and the subscription-based Eurosport Player service, delivering 24/7 content to fans across 52 countries.

From BBC iPlayer to Eurosport

Riviera spent the last six years as Director of Digital Content at BBC, overseeing all of the station's online services and spearheading the implementation and operation of BBC iPlayer. The platform set a new standard for online sports broadcasting during the 2012 London Olympics. Prior to joining BBC, Riviera spent a decade at AOL, where he held positions including Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Digital Games, transforming the division into one of the company’s most profitable units.

Michael Lang on Riviera's Appointment

Commenting on the appointment, Michael Lang said:

Ralph Riviera to Lead Eurosport's Digital Push

Ralph is one of the most visionary minds in digital content management worldwide. His understanding of the European market and innovative approach will be a huge asset as we expand our direct-to-consumer offerings. His product- and technology-focused leadership will undoubtedly elevate Eurosport’s digital services, which is our top priority. We are continuously striving to deliver sports coverage and emotion to the broadest audience possible, in the simplest and most profitable way.

Summary

Ralph Riviera will take up his new role as Managing Director, Eurosport Digital in London on September 26. He will report to Michael Lang of Discovery Communications and collaborate closely with Eurosport CEO Peter Hutton. His mission is to drive the growth of Eurosport.com and the subscription-based Eurosport Player, used by fans in 52 countries.

Riviera spent six years overseeing digital content at BBC, including the operation of BBC iPlayer, which set a benchmark for online sports broadcasts during the 2012 London Olympics. Before that, he spent a decade at AOL, where as a Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Digital Games, he turned the division into one of the company’s most profitable.