Gfinity plc, an eSports solutions provider, announced the appointment of John Clarke to the newly created role of global brand and marcomms officer with immediate effect.

Clarke was appointed as non-executive director of Gfinity in September 2018 and will now become an executive director. He will work alongside executive chairman Garry Cook and global chief operating officer Graham Wallace to deliver the company’s strategic plan and growth targets. 

Clarke is an experienced communications executive having worked in and with leading global companies for the last 25 years. Prior to joining Gfinity, Clarke worked for Heineken where he was head of global communications and, most recently, a senior commercial director within Lagunitas Brewing Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Heineken. Previously, he held senior leadership, corporate affairs and marketing positions within the American Express Company and Burson-Marsteller Public Relations.

As the company grows Clarke will play a key role in helping Gfinity grow and shape the eSports community, and in providing others with the knowledge and skills to unlock its value.

Clarke says, “I am thrilled to be part of the Gfinity team as the global esports phenomenon continues to grow. Young people are spending their time and money in completely new ways and the esports sector presents a commercial opportunity like no other. Gfinity knows this audience better than anyone. We are serious about esports and will continue to partner with gamers to improve their gaming experience. In doing so, we are helping publishers, brands, sports rights holders and media companies engage with the sector more effectively and unlock what is becoming one of the dominant sports activities of the 21st century.”

Cook adds, “I am delighted to welcome John to the Gfinity team. We have already seen in the short period of time that John has been a non-executive director the value he brings. He is a seasoned leader and team builder who adds creativity, commercial acumen and fresh thinking. John’s focus on the consumer and ability to share stories in a compelling way will drive Gfinity forward as we move into the next phase of growth. The competitive gaming landscape continues to grow. Gfinity is well placed to lead in this space based on our advisory capability and expertise in designing, developing and delivering esport solutions.”