EmPath Launches Sports Entertainment & Media Practice

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, January 19th 2026 at 10:56 GMT by Business Travel News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

NEW YORK - January 19th, 2026 - Talent advisory and executive search firm EmPath is significantly expanding its reach with the launch of a dedicated practice specializing in sports entertainment and media. This strategic move reflects the accelerating pace of change and the growing need for specialized expertise within these rapidly evolving industries.

The new practice area isn't just a minor addition; it's a direct response to the disruptive forces reshaping content creation, distribution, live event management, and virtually every facet of sports entertainment and media. Companies are facing unprecedented challenges--from navigating the rise of streaming services to adapting to shifting consumer preferences and embracing new technologies--and they require equally agile and innovative leadership to thrive.

"The sports entertainment and media industries are undergoing rapid change and transformation," stated Jessica Soard, Managing Director and the newly appointed leader of EmPath's sports entertainment and media practice. Her statement underscores the urgency that's driving this expansion. The need to quickly identify, attract, and onboard top-tier leadership is no longer a competitive advantage; it's a survival imperative.

A Leader with Proven Expertise

The appointment of Jessica Soard to lead this crucial practice area is a testament to EmPath's commitment to providing clients with unparalleled expertise. Soard brings a wealth of experience gleaned from years of executive search engagements for industry giants. Her previous roles involved spearheading talent acquisition efforts for household names like Disney, NBC Universal, and WarnerMedia. This deep understanding of the complexities and nuances of these organizations positions her perfectly to guide EmPath's new practice.

Soard's experience isn't limited to simply filling positions. She has a proven track record of building leadership teams, understanding the strategic imperatives driving business decisions, and identifying the talent profiles required to achieve ambitious goals. This holistic approach is what EmPath intends to bring to its clients.

Addressing the Disruptive Landscape

The sports entertainment and media landscape is characterized by constant disruption. The traditional models of content creation and distribution have been upended by the rise of direct-to-consumer streaming platforms like Disney+ and Peacock. Live events, once reliant on stadium attendance, are experimenting with virtual experiences and immersive technologies. This dynamism necessitates a new breed of leaders capable of adapting quickly, embracing innovation, and navigating the complexities of a multi-platform environment.

EmPath's new practice aims to provide comprehensive solutions that extend beyond traditional executive search. The firm also assists companies with:

• Leadership Development: Identifying and nurturing future leaders within organizations to ensure a pipeline of talent ready to take on increasing responsibility.
• Succession Planning: Proactively preparing for leadership transitions, mitigating risk, and ensuring continuity of operations.
• Interim Executive Services: Providing temporary leadership solutions to address short-term needs or bridge gaps during periods of transition or growth.

Looking Ahead

This expansion signifies EmPath's proactive response to the evolving needs of the sports entertainment and media industries. By offering a specialized practice led by a seasoned executive, EmPath is positioning itself as a key partner for organizations seeking to navigate the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities presented by this dynamic sector. The firm anticipates significant growth in demand for its services as companies increasingly recognize the importance of attracting and retaining exceptional leadership talent to maintain their competitive edge. The future of sports entertainment and media hinges on the quality of its leadership, and EmPath is ready to help shape that future.