Key points:
- Kropf joins Genius Sports as the company looks to expand its AI product, GeniusIQ
- He has experience in technology, AI and cybersecurity
- Previously held positions at Google, Pivotal and Diebold
Genius Sports has welcomed Mark Kropf as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO).
Kropf previously held the role of Technical Director in Google’s Office of the Chief Technology Officer, where he worked on Google Cloud products for almost five years.
He has over two decades of experience in the technology field, with prior roles as CTO at Pivotal and GM of Emerging Technologies at Diebold.
On his appointment, Kropf said: "Genius Sports’ technology is redefining how sports are understood and consumed globally.
“I look forward to supporting this continued growth and working with a remarkable team that has already positioned Genius Sports at the forefront of data and technology innovation in sport.”
At Genius Sports, Kropf will oversee and expand the deployment of GeniusIQ, the sports data platform that uses AI to deliver game analysis and customer experiences.
Good to know: Kropf currently holds five patents in a variety of technological fields, including banking systems and vulnerability notifications
The AI model allows for automated content creation, as well as personalised engagement and advertising opportunities.
Mark Locke, Genius Sports CEO, said: “I am thrilled to welcome Mark Kropf as our Group CTO.
“His outstanding track record of technology leadership at both Google and Pivotal, combined with his deep experience in AI-focused innovation, will play a critical role in our future.
“Our cutting-edge GeniusIQ platform is already driving the AI revolution in the global sports ecosystem and Mark’s expertise will play a key role in amplifying and accelerating that transformation.”
Genius Sports is partnered with over 400 sports organisations around the world, including the NFL, Nascar and Liga MX.
Earlier this month, speculation arose after reports hinted at a potential acquisition of Kambi by Genius Sports, even though both companies denied this.
Genius' share price currently sits at $7.84, down 3.7% over the last day, although it is 10% up over the course of last month.
