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
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PresidentKnights Nov 2018 - PresentPittsburgh, Pennsylvania, UsThe 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." -
Business Development Project ManagerAllegheny County Economic Development: Business Development Division Jan 2015 - Jan 2019Pittsburgh, Pa, Us -
Co-Owner (Former)Renegades Aug 2016 - Apr 2017Assisted Jonas Jerebko, current professional basketball player for the Utah Jazz, and his financial group to purchase the "LA Renegades" and rebrand the esports franchise to the "Detroit Renegades."
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Counter-Strike CoachTeam Liquid Aug 2015 - Apr 2016Santa Monica, Ca, UsCoached Team Liquid CSGO team to make two major world finals. -
Greater Pittsburgh Area Platoon LeaderThe Mission Continues Apr 2014 - Oct 2015St. Louis, Mo, UsIn 2013, The Mission Continues introduced a new way for veterans to continue serving at home – the service platoon. A service platoon is a team of veterans, active duty service members, guardsmen and reservists that mobilizes together to solve specific challenges in their community. United by the common bond of military service, platoons offer veterans the opportunity to make an impact in their community.With the support of the Heinz Endowment, Highmark, Mayor Peduto’s office, local nonprofits, civic organizations and businesses, the Pittsburgh Platoon will seek to lend a helping hand in improving our great city. -
Mission Continues FellowThe Mission Continues Oct 2013 - Apr 2014St. Louis, Mo, Us
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Leadership Pittsburgh Clcv Class LlLeadership Pittsburgh Inc. Apr 2015 - Sep 2015Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, UsThe six month Community Leadership Course gives class members the opportunity to develop a greater understanding of our region, meet with business and community leaders, as well as utilize their leadership skills to accomplish a community impact project in partnership with a local non-profit organization. This course provides participants with the exposure, experiences and connections that prepare them to tackle the challenges of our community. Bi-weeklysessions cover topics such as corporate landscape, nonprofit landscape, history of Pittsburgh, savvy networking and more. The knowledge and associations obtained through Leadership Pittsburgh provides access to the platforms needed to take on leadership roles within Southwestern Pennsylvania communities. -
Leadership Pittsburgh Graduate (Clcv)Leadership Pittsburgh Inc. Apr 2015 - Sep 2015Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, UsLeadership Pittsburgh Inc. (LPI) is the foremost multi-disciplinary leadership identification, enrichment and networking organization in Southwestern Pennsylvania dedicated to developing a robust pipeline of diverse civic leaders to serve the region.
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Economic Development FellowSan Francisco Center For Economic Development Nov 2013 - Apr 2014San Francisco, Ca, Us• Created consultative, story-focused econometric reports by analyzing data that were used to identify trends and patterns within San Francisco’s business sectors.• Project management included developing a strategic plan in response to an RFP for the economic growth of San Francisco’s businesses. -
Marketing And PromotionsShippensburg University Aug 2012 - Aug 2013Shippensburg, Pa, Us• Created and executed the university’s first athletic marketing and promotions plan. Served as the event creator, coordinator and promoter for Shippensburg University‘s Department of Athletics. • Conducted sponsor relationship management, organized and managed special athletics events and fundraisers. Result: Increased game attendance by 16% in 1 academic year by successfully executing all phases of the marketing plan. -
U.S. Marine, Avionics ElectricianUnited States Marine Corps Sep 1999 - Sep 2004Washington, Dc, Us• As a U.S. Marine Corps Aviation Electrician Technician aboard the S.S. Wright during “Operation Iraqi Freedom,” I served as a team leader for our department.Result: Received a meritorious mast for leadership, skillful instruction, and unwavering dedication to duty by personally repairing more than 180 mission-critical units of the 290 needing repair within 72 hours.• Performed complex repairs, tests, and inspections of Harrier and F-18 navigational systems.• Presidential Unit Citation• National Defense Service Medal • Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal• Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal
James O'Connor Education Details
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Shippensburg University Of PennsylvaniaAccounting And Finance -
Harvard Kennedy SchoolAuthentic Leadership Workshop
Frequently Asked Questions about James O'Connor
What company does James O'Connor work for?
James O'Connor works for Knights
What is James O'Connor's role at the current company?
James O'Connor's current role is President of Knights.
What schools did James O'Connor attend?
James O'Connor attended Shippensburg University Of Pennsylvania, Harvard Kennedy School.
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