MTGx Makes U.S. Push with New Hire

STOCKHOLM/SAN FRANCISCO: Scott Rupp has been appointed as managing director for MTGx USA as MTG aims to expand its presence in the country.

In this role, Rupp will develop opportunities for MTGx’s portfolio in the U.S. He will be responsible for expanding the company’s international network and sourcing new digital investments. Rupp, who is based in San Francisco, has more than 20 years of experience in digital media and entertainment.

Prior to joining MTGx, Rupp served as CEO of Digital Artists Entertainment, the VC-backed start-up behind Ignition. He has also worked at Icebox, Gazillion Entertainment, McKinsey & Company, Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown and Carlyle Group.

MTGx has already established a presence in the U.S. through its portfolio companies. These include eSports firm ESL; DreamHack, which organizes digital festivals and LAN parties; and InnoGames, a global online games developer and publisher with more than a quarter of its gamers based in the U.S. The U.S. is also an important market for MTGx’s multiplatform network Zoomin.TV.

Arnd Benninghoff, MTG’s executive VP and CEO of MTGx, said, “Our portfolio companies have a strong presence in the U.S., along with many of the world’s largest digital media businesses. It’s a natural next step for MTGx to put a man on the ground in this global entertainment and technology center. Scott’s amazing experience and relationships will open up even more fantastic opportunities for our business, while giving us the inside track on the very latest trends such as 360 video, VR and AR.”

Rupp added: “I love building digital entertainment businesses, and the MTGx team’s passion and ambition are off the charts. Incredible! There’s no doubt MTG has the people, assets, global footprint and entrepreneurial culture to shape the future of digital entertainment, and I can’t wait to get started.”