Professional Summary

Professional Overview

Mike Ybarra is an experienced technology executive with a proven track record of leading high-performing teams and driving business growth. As the CEO of PrizePicks, he is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and operations of the company, leveraging his extensive industry expertise to drive innovation and deliver exceptional value to customers.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the CEO of PrizePicks since August 2024, Mike Ybarra is responsible for shaping the company's vision, driving strategic initiatives, and fostering a culture of excellence. Under his leadership, PrizePicks has expanded its market presence and solidified its position as a leading player in the rapidly evolving sports technology industry.

Career Progression

Prior to his current role, Mike held several senior leadership positions at Blizzard Entertainment, serving as the President from 2021 to 2024 and the Executive Vice President & GM of Platform and Technology from 2019 to 2021. In these roles, he was instrumental in driving the company's digital transformation and enhancing its online platform and service offerings. Before joining Blizzard, Mike spent over a decade at Microsoft, where he held various leadership roles in the Xbox division, including leading the development of Xbox Live, Xbox Game Pass, and Mixer.

Academic Background

Mike Ybarra holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Hewlett-Packard, where he began his career as a Software Development Engineer.

Areas of Expertise

• Digital transformation and platform development

• Online gaming and esports ecosystems

• Product strategy and innovation

• Operational excellence and team leadership

• Strategic partnership and business development

Professional Impact

Throughout his career, Mike Ybarra has been recognized for his ability to drive business growth, foster innovation, and build high-performing teams. At Blizzard Entertainment, he played a pivotal role in expanding the company's digital footprint and enhancing its online service offerings, contributing to its continued success in the gaming industry. As the CEO of PrizePicks, he is leveraging his extensive expertise to propel the company's growth and solidify its position as a leading player in the sports technology space.

Conclusion

With his deep industry knowledge, proven leadership skills, and track record of driving business success, Mike Ybarra is well-positioned to guide PrizePicks through its next phase of growth and innovation. His strategic vision, coupled with his strong operational expertise, make him a valuable asset in the rapidly evolving sports technology landscape.