Jeffrey Pollack

Jeffrey Pollack is a Professor of Practice and Lecturer at the McCormack Department of Sport Management within the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He holds adjunct roles at the University of Miami School of Law (Entertainment, Arts, and Sports Law) and Rutgers University (Global Sports Business Program). Pollack possesses over 25 years of leadership experience in the sports industry, including roles as CEO of the XFL, Commissioner of the World Series of Poker, and Strategic Advisor to NBA Commissioner David Stern. He founded The Sports Business Daily, a pioneering sports journalism platform.

• Education: M.S. in Sport Management (UMass Amherst, 2003); M.S. in Professional Studies (Graduate School of Political Management, 1988); B.S. in Journalism (Northwestern University, 1986).

His expertise spans strategic leadership, media innovation, and industry transformation. Pollack has driven growth for ventures ranging from family-owned businesses to corporate entities, emphasizing catalytic change and innovation. He mentors students and collaborates on experiential learning projects, such as MBA consulting initiatives tied to his advisory and entrepreneurial activities.

• Awards: 2023 Harold J. VanderZwaag Distinguished Alumnus Award (UMass Isenberg).

He advises on industry engagement and professional development, co-teaching graduate seminars and fostering student-industry connections. His career includes leadership roles at the NBA, NASCAR, and Professional Bull Riders, alongside executive positions in media and strategy.