Ben Payne, a Microsoft employee previously responsible for third party marking, partnerships for Xbox Europe, Middle East, and Africa, has left the company and joined McLaren as director of eSports. His new adventure at McLaren started yesterday, coming at a time when the auto manufacturer is ramping up its involvement in eports with the ongoing World’s Fastest Gamer competition (via dexerto.com.)
Given his experience with marketing both Windows Xbox, Payne should fit right in at McLaren. In a press release, he mentioned the delight of being in a new position at a new company:
“I’m delighted to be joining McLaren as director of esports during the climax of this year’s prestigious World’s Fastest Gamer contest. It’s undoubtedly an exciting time to be joining the organisation, and I’m looking forward to helping the McLaren brand grow and develop through its esports and gaming proposition.”
With this appointment of Ben Payne, McLaren has become the first Formula 1 team to have a dedicated position for an esports director. Payne is expected to oversee the growth and development of McLaren’s esports strategy, as well as leading development of the WFG partner community
