Overview
- Gaines returns to the company to lead talent management, development, and recruitment across its platforms.
- She begins on January 5, 2026, reporting to Freddy Rolón, who oversees ESPN’s global sports and talent office.
- ESPN simultaneously named Rosetta Ellis-Pilie vice president of talent negotiations and policy, a newly created position.
- Gaines most recently served as vice president of content strategy and original programming at MSG Networks after a 14-year tenure at ESPN, including managing producer for ESPN+ and original content.
- Rolón characterized the expanded Talent Office as a significant investment in the company’s talent community.