Skydance is expanding its leadership ranks with three prominent figures from the worlds of media, technology, business and government, as the newly formed entertainment company moves to establish its identity following its blockbuster combination with Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery.
Investor and philanthropist Laurene Powell Jobs and former Activision Blizzard chief executive Bobby Kotick have joined Skydance’s board of directors, according to a securities filing. Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair will serve as an adviser to the board.
The appointments give Skydance access to a wide range of experience at a pivotal moment for the company, which is being led by David Ellison. Powell Jobs brings extensive experience in investing, philanthropy and media, while Kotick spent decades overseeing one of the world's largest interactive entertainment businesses. Blair adds a global political and policy perspective developed during his years at the highest levels of government.
Ellison welcomed the appointments, describing the three executives as important additions as Skydance works to integrate its businesses and chart a long-term strategy.
“I am delighted to welcome Laurene and Bobby to our Board and honored to have Tony join us as an Advisor,” Ellison said in a statement.
“Laurene is a true visionary and one of the great institution builders of our time. Her vision, judgment and unwavering commitment to high-quality journalism and media investments make her a truly exceptional addition to our Board. Through Emerson Collective, she pioneered an innovative model that brings together venture investing and philanthropy to tackle society’s most complex challenges, and she has an extraordinary gift for recognizing bold ideas early and turning them into lasting impact.”
Ellison also highlighted Kotick’s experience in entertainment and his record of navigating a major global company through decades of change.
“Bobby led a global entertainment company through three decades of sustained growth, and he brings real perspective on building enduring franchises and connecting with fans. His record of pairing bold strategic moves with disciplined capital allocation is exactly the experience we need as we bring our businesses together.”
On Blair, Ellison pointed to his international experience and ability to operate at the intersection of government, business and global affairs.
“Tony has led at the highest levels of government, respected for his intellect, strategic vision and ability to bring people together around bold, forward-looking ideas. His global perspective and insight will be invaluable as we turn ambition into results.”
The appointments come as Skydance seeks to combine the creative and commercial legacies associated with Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery while positioning itself for growth in an increasingly competitive entertainment industry.
Ellison said the expanded board would play a central role in shaping that strategy.
“Together with our other directors, they bring the experience and fresh perspectives we need to build Skydance into an extraordinary company, one that honors the legacies of Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery while setting a bold course for the future,” he said.
“United by a commitment to creative excellence, innovation and long-term shareholder value, this Board will help us empower our teams, strengthen our businesses and deliver exceptional entertainment to audiences around the world.”
Who is joining Skydance’s leadership?
Powell Jobs, the founder and president of Emerson Collective, has established herself as a major investor and philanthropist with interests spanning media, technology, education and social initiatives. Her addition gives Skydance a board member with substantial experience in backing media ventures and developing institutions with long-term influence.
Kotick, meanwhile, brings decades of experience in the video-game and entertainment industries. As the longtime leader of Activision Blizzard, he oversaw the development and expansion of some of the world's best-known gaming franchises and helped transform interactive entertainment into a major global media business.
Blair's appointment as a board adviser adds a different dimension to Skydance's leadership. As a former British prime minister, he brings experience in international affairs, government and diplomacy, potentially giving the company an additional perspective as it expands its global ambitions.
Skydance board lineup
The company’s board will include David Ellison, chairman and chief executive officer of Skydance; Barbara Byrne, former vice chairman of Barclays PLC; Andy Campion, chairman and CEO of Unrivaled Sports; Gerry Cardinale, founder, managing partner and chief investment officer of RedBird Capital Partners; Safra A. Catz, executive vice chair and former CEO of Oracle Corporation; Andy Gordon, president of Skydance; Justin G. Hamill, managing director and chief legal officer of Silver Lake; Laurene Powell Jobs, founder and president of Emerson Collective; Bobby Kotick, founder and former CEO of Activision; Ynon Kreiz, co-chief executive officer of Skydance; Sherry Lansing, former chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures; Paul Marinelli, president of Lawrence Investments LLC; and John L. Thornton, chairman of RedBird Capital Partners.
The expanded leadership team reflects the breadth of expertise Skydance is seeking as it begins a new chapter—bringing together Hollywood leadership, investment experience, technology expertise and international perspectives under one corporate structure.