Brush leads and develops Disney/ESPN’s affiliate marketing team by providing creative direction and marketing support to distributors. To remain on top in the affiliate marketing space, it’s crucial to be a student of the business, he says. “There needs to be a level of competency and comfort with creative, brand and data due to the increased activity with the consumer marketing, research and data teams. And an ability to activate our assets and resources to drive subscriber acquisition and retention for our partners.”
What professional accomplishments are you most proud of from the past 12 months?
Our affiliate marketing team’s efforts to partner with the DMVPDs to utilize our brands to drive subscriber growth and retention. Our ability to drive significant value to key network priorities, including College Football Playoff, Oscars, NBA Finals, “Beyond” and “DuckTales,” through partnerships with our affiliates. Our launch and internal integration of Instant Access for ESPN, ABC, Disney Channel and Freeform. The opportunity to lead, help develop and empower a “best-in-class” affiliate marketing team.
With all the disruption in the marketplace, how has the role of an affiliate marketer changed?
The role and expectations of affiliate marketers in the distribution business has certainly evolved over time. To be effective in this role, it is crucial to be a student of the business and of the business of all of our distribution partners (cable, satellite, telco and digital/OTT). There needs to be a level of competency and comfort with creative, brand and data due to the increased activity with the consumer marketing, research and data teams. And, an ability to activate our assets and resources to drive subscriber acquisition and retention for our partners.
What do you do for fun outside of work?
When I’m not on the “disabled list,” I try to get out and play hockey once or twice a week. Great workout and an opportunity to hang out with some buddies. In addition, I’m an avid Boston sports fan and watch the Bruins, Patriots and Red Sox as much as I can…through my television.
