WME/IMG China Names CEO

Executive appointment will bolster the company’s plans for further growth in the region.

WME/IMG has appointed Michael Ma to serve as chief executive officer of its WME/IMG China subsidiary.

In his new role, Ma will lead WME/IMG’s efforts to advance its growth in the country.

Prior to joining WME/IMG China, Ma spent 13 years with the National Basketball Association where he helped develop the organization’s presence in China.

“Michael brings not only a deep knowledge of the Chinese market, but also incredible experience in cultivating brands within China through his work with the NBA,” says Ariel Emanuel and Patrick Whitesell, co-chief executive officers, WME/IMG. “We’re looking forward to working alongside Michael to expand our current business in China while creating new opportunities for our clients and partners in one of our fastest growing markets.”

Formed in June 2016 through a Sequoia Capital China-led investment group, which includes Tencent, FountainVest Partners and Focus Media, WME/IMG China is focused on advancing the company’s growth in the region across sports and entertainment.

“Michael will provide great leadership to the WME/IMG team in China as they look to grow the company’s footprint there,” says Neil Shen, founding and managing partner, Sequoia Capital China. “Sequoia Capital China is excited to draw on our knowledge of the market to lend support and to help accelerate this growth.”

WME/IMG’s current presence in China includes representing athletes like Li Na; managing professional golf and tennis events including the WGC HSBC Champions and Shenzhen Open; operating mass participation events including The Color Run and Tough Mudder; helping stage fashion events like Shenzhen Fashion Week; negotiating media rights on behalf of sports entities such as the Chinese Super League; operating a joint venture with CCTV; and providing counsel to tourism, sports, corporate and event authorities.