Russ Pillar

Senior Advisor, Mubadala Capital, Mubadala Capital
Ketchum, Idaho,United States
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Who Is Russ Pillar?

Total Experience61 years
CompanyMubadala Capital
CountryUnited States

Russ Pillar is a seasoned executive and C-level leader with over three decades of experience at the intersection of media, technology, sports, and entertainment. He has a distinguished track record of building and leading high-growth businesses, from pioneering digital ventures for major sports franchises to steering iconic global brands through transformative periods. His expertise spans digital strategy, brand management, corporate development, and operational leadership. Pillar has held prominent roles such as CEO of Reigning Champs, President and CEO of the Virgin Entertainment Group (North America), and President of Playboy Enterprises. He is known for his strategic vision in monetizing digital content and building powerful consumer-facing platforms.

Russ Pillar LinkedIn pageCompany Website

How Did Russ Pillar's Career Path Shape Their Journey?

Russ Pillar's work history includes a series of influential roles in various companies. Here is a detailed list of his professional journey:

Mubadala Capital - Senior Advisor, Mubadala Capital(2019 to Present)
Sportable - Co-Chairman of the Board(2022 to Present)
The Aspen Institute - Henry Crown Fellow(2002 to Present)
Reigning Champs - Founder, Executive Chairman, and Director(2018 to 2021)
The Raine Group - Senior Advisor/Operating Partner(2011 to 2012)
Los Angeles Marathon - Co-Owner, President, and Director(2008 to 2010)
Viacom - President, Viacom Digital Media Group(2001 to 2006)
CBS Corporation - President and Chief Executive Officer, CBS Internet Group(2000 to 2001)
Virgin USA - President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director, Virgin Entertainment Group(1998 to 2000)
Prodigy Communications - Vice Chairman, Prodigy Communications Corp/President and Chief Executive Officer, Prodigy Internet(1996 to 2000)

What Are Russ Pillar's Key Achievements?

Leadership at Virgin Entertainment Group

As President and CEO for North America, he guided the Virgin Entertainment Group, including its flagship Virgin Megastores, through the critical industry shift from physical to digital media, managing a complex retail and entertainment ecosystem.

Pioneering Digital Sports Media

As the founding President & CEO of San Francisco Giants Interactive in the late 1990s, he launched one of the first dedicated digital media divisions for a major professional sports team, setting a new standard for online fan engagement.

Growth and Successful Exit at Reigning Champs

While serving as CEO of Reigning Champs, a market leader in digital media for high school sports, he spearheaded the company's growth and strategic initiatives, culminating in its successful acquisition by an Endeavor-backed entity.

Executive Management at Major Media Conglomerates

Held senior executive positions at prominent media companies including Viacom (as SVP at CBS Interactive) and Playboy Enterprises (as President), where he was responsible for digital transformation, global licensing, and brand strategy.

What's Russ Pillar's Educational Background?

Bachelor's degree, cum laude, East Asian Studies

Brown University - Year 1983

International Exchange Student, East Asian Studies

Keio University - Year 1985

Buying Intent Signals for Russ Pillar

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Notable news
Hiring actively
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Company Overview

Mubadala Capital
Total employees350
HeadquartersAbu Dhabi
Founded2011

Mubadala Capital is the global asset management subsidiary of Mubadala Investment Company, a leading sovereign investor. It manages a diverse portfolio of assets, including its own balance sheet and third-party capital, across various strategies such as private equity, public equity, venture capital, and credit. With a presence in key financial hubs like Abu Dhabi, New York, London, San Francisco, and Rio de Janeiro, Mubadala Capital leverages its global network and deep expertise to generate sustainable, long-term financial returns.

Company Website
Mubadala Capital Funding Information
Unknown - Total Funding Raised
not applicable - Most recent funding amount
not applicable - Number of funding rounds
not applicable - Latest funding round
Lead Investors:
Mubadala Investment Company

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