James Oconnor

About James Oconnor

James O\'Connor has been globally recognized as one of the best team builders and strategists in esports. A Marine Corps veteran who served in Iraq, O’Connor went on to earn his MBA, translating his military skills into real-world applications. He actively supported returning veterans through his work with the non-profit, The Mission Continues, and continued to serve his community by working in economic development - first for San Francisco and more recently for Allegheny County. Today, he is the president of the Pittsburgh Knights, a global esports team of 30+ players and streamers, headquartered in one of the most well-branded sports cities in the country. With his knowledge of management, program development, economic development, veteran affairs, data-analysis, and strategic planning, his 10+ years of professional gaming experience, and his desire to bolster his hometown, he is driving the Pittsburgh Knights to become one of the most esteemed esports teams in the world. In 2018, the Knights announced their partnership with six-time Super Bowl Champions, the Pittsburgh Steelers. In 2019, the Knights brought on another strategic partner with Pittsburgh roots - multi-platinum recording artist Wiz Khalifa. Twitter @jamesoconnor

Experience

1. President

   Knights

   Nov 2018 — Present · Pittsburgh, PA, US

   The Knights, a premier global esports organization based in Pittsburgh, have been at the forefront of esports entertainment and community engagement since their inception in 2017. Renowned for their dynamic live and virtual events, they\'ve earned their place in the City of Champions with a strategic partnership with the six-time Super Bowl champions, the Pittsburgh Steelers, in 2018. The organization has further enhanced its leadership team with strategic partnerships, including Pittsburgh-native and multi-platinum recording artist Wiz Khalifa, Pittsburgh Penguins’ alternate captain and three-time Stanley Cup winner Evgeni Malkin, and the Mexico City-based media fund MX LATAM in 2019.Officially recognized by Pittsburgh, The Knights collaborate with leading figures in sports and entertainment globally, boasting a roster that includes some of the world\'s top players in Rocket League®, Gears 5™, Rainbow Six Siege, Valorant, Madden NFL©, Halo, and Mortal Kombat.\"

Education

• Harvard Kennedy School

  Authentic Leadership Workshop

  2014 — 2014

• Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania

  Master of Business Administration (MBA), Accounting and Finance