COLUMBIA, Mo. – Learfield IMG College, the longtime athletics multimedia rightsholder for the University of Missouri, recently appointed Josh Pell general manager for Mizzou Sports Properties, its local team dedicated to Tigers.
Pell transitions to the GM role having most recently served over two years as director of business development. He has been with Learfield IMG College nearly 10 years, and he has been with Mizzou Sports Properties since October 2013 working closely with corporate partners that align with the Tigers. Pell’s first role with Learfield IMG College was serving with its Saluki Sports Properties team representing Southern Illinois University.
“Josh is a high achiever and a great ambassador for our company, and he has repeatedly performed at a high level within our overall corporate sales structure, as well as in how he provides top level service to Mizzou Sports Properties’ corporate partners,” said David Hubbard, Learfield IMG College senior vice president, multi-media rights. “We’re excited to elevate Josh to general manager, and we know he’ll continue on a successful track and work alongside Athletics to amplify the Mizzou brand.”
Concurrent with this move, former GM Nick Garner has transitioned into a new role within Learfield IMG College as well. He and his family recently relocated to Texas, and he is serving as vice president, strategic solutions and partnerships in the corporate headquarters.
Pell will work closely with Missouri Director of Athletics Jim Sterk and the entire athletics administration. Mizzou Sports Properties oversees strategic sponsorships with local, regional and national businesses looking to align with the Tigers, as well as the comprehensive rights relationship which includes signage, digital, radio, hospitality and promotions.
“We’re excited to have Josh as the leader of our partnership with Learfield IMG College,” said Executive Associate AD, Marketing & Revenue Generation Jay Luksis. “We’ve gotten to know him and his family over the years and know he will do great things for Mizzou and Mizzou Sports Properties for years to come.”
Learfield IMG College unlocks the value of college sports for brands and fans through an omnichannel platform. The company’s extensive content and commerce solutions create ultimate opportunities for fan engagement. The Learfield IMG College suite of services includes licensing and multimedia sponsorship management; publishing, broadcasting, digital and social media; ticket sales and professional concessions expertise; branding; campus-wide business and sponsorship development; and venue technology systems. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, the company has long had the privilege of being an advocate for intercollegiate athletics and the student-athlete experience. Since 2008, it has served as title sponsor for the acclaimed Learfield IMG College Directors’ Cup, supporting athletic departments across all divisions.