Speaker Profile

Burke Magnus was promoted to president, content, in March 2023, taking leadership of ESPN’s newly formed Content organization. In this role, he oversees a broad portfolio that includes studio shows, live events, newsgathering, investigative journalism, ESPN Films and other original content, the Talent Office, as well as ESPN’s audio, digital, and social media efforts. 

During his more than 30 years at ESPN, Magnus has made a significant and lasting impact across both The Walt Disney Company and the sports media industry. He has guided teams responsible for some of ESPN’s most influential and widely consumed programming, spanning both licensed and internally developed content. Known as a strong relationship builder, he has cultivated meaningful partnerships across Disney and with major league and rights‑holder organizations throughout sports. 

Before assuming his current role, Magnus led ESPN’s programming acquisitions and scheduling division for nearly a decade. In that capacity, he managed rightsholder relationships, set content strategy, and directed global cross‑platform programming rights acquisition. His leadership was instrumental in launching ESPN+ as part of Disney’s broader direct‑to‑consumer strategy. 

Magnus previously served as president, programming and original content beginning in June 2021, expanding his responsibilities to include original content development and scheduling for ESPN and ESPN+, including ESPN Films and the 30 for 30 franchise. His earlier roles include oversight of original content starting in 2020, executive vice president of programming acquisitions and scheduling, and various senior programming leadership positions dating back to 2008.

A native of Ridgewood, N.J., Magnus is a graduate of Holy Cross and holds a master’s degree in sport management from the University of Massachusetts. He began his career at ESPN in 1995.

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