The Senior Director, Programming Business Affairs is a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of sports rights acquisition, content licensing, contract administration, and rights management across ESPN and The Walt Disney Company (TWDC). Serving as a strategic partner to Programming, Legal, Ad Sales, Distribution, Business Development, and Finance, this executive will lead negotiations for key sports properties, ensure contractual compliance and execution, and maximize the value of content rights across linear, digital, streaming, direct-to-consumer, and emerging distribution platforms. This leader will act as the primary business affairs liaison for league and rights-holder partners, balancing sophisticated deal-making, relationship management, and operational excellence. The role requires a deep understanding of the evolving sports media landscape, media rights economics, and the strategic opportunities that drive audience growth, distribution expansion, and long-term business value. Responsibilities Sports Rights Acquisition & Negotiation • Lead strategic preparation for major media rights renewals by organizing historical agreements, evaluating contractual obligations, identifying business opportunities, and coordinating enterprise-wide negotiation readiness. • Lead and support negotiations for high-profile sports rights agreements, renewals, amendments, and strategic partnerships. • Partner closely with senior Programming, Legal, Distribution, Ad Sales, Direct-to-Consumer, and Business Development leaders to maximize the value and flexibility of acquired rights. • Evaluate new rights opportunities and emerging market trends, developing recommendations that support ESPN and TWDC's broader content strategy. • Serve as a trusted advisor during complex negotiations, balancing business objectives, contractual protections, and partner relationships. Strategic Business Affairs Leadership • Act as the central point of contact for league partners and rights holders on all business affairs matters. • Provide strategic guidance and risk assessment on contractual issues, identifying solutions that align with both business priorities and legal…