Tabcorp recruits Paramount executive as its first chief commercial and media officer

BY Nathan Jolly

December 20, 2024 9:57

Tabcorp recruits Paramount executive as its first chief commercial and media officer

Tabcorp has appointed Jarrod Villani as the company’s first chief commercial and media officer.

The role has been created to “deliver stronger commercial outcomes and maximise the value of the company’s assets across domestic and international media, our retail footprint and integrity services”, and will bring all commercial and media deals under one executive, who will also lead Sky Racing, which broadcasts into more than 60 countries.

Villani was most recently the regional lead of Paramount ANZ, encompassing the Australian operations of Network Ten and Paramount+, where he was involved in the launch of Paramount+, the restructuring of various business operations, and the negotiation of sports media rights.

Previously, Villani was a managing partner of KordaMentha, during which time he led the successful restructure and eventual sale of Network 10 to CBS.

Tabcorp CEO, Gillon McLachlan, said Jarrod’s commercial television experience would take Sky Racing to a new level.

“Jarrod is a deal maker and this role will bring all commercial deals, including our commercial retail agreements, into one executive,” he said.

“Jarrod’s role will maximise the commercial opportunities that lie within the unique asset base at Tabcorp and his extensive experience in transformation is the perfect fit as we change our cadence as a company.

“Jarrod’s expertise leading a commercial television network will also be invaluable for the Sky Racing team as we look to increase the capability and commercial breadth of the network.”

Villani added: “Tabcorp is a great Australian company, with a unique and valuable asset base, it’s an exciting time for the company. I’m looking forward to working with Gill, our team and partners across the business to unlock the value that lies within our assets.

“There’s no sports entertainment ecosystem like it in Australia and I’m excited by the growth opportunities as we continue the company’s transformation.

“SKY Racing is a world leader in live racing broadcast and there’s no television network in Australia that broadcasts more live television than Sky Racing. It’s a stable of rising stars and content opportunities which are untapped.

“I think there’s a real opportunity to innovate the viewing experience and look at new commercial opportunities within the business. This combined with a network presence of some 4,000 venues, present a very unique and valuable proposition.”