Big Ten Conference Creates Sports Data & Analytics Department
Big Ten Conference Commissioner Kevin Warren announced the formation of the Sports Data and Analytics Department, which will focus on collecting, synthesizing, and utilizing data and analytics for all areas of the organization. This department is charged with generating insights and driving new opportunities for the conference.Jessica Palermo, a 13-year veteran of the Big Ten Conference, has been promoted to Vice President, Sports Data Management & Analytics, and will lead this emerging initiative. Palermo will be tasked with building the vision and strategy for the business verticals associated with the conference.
Kerry Kenny, a 14-year veteran of the Big Ten Conference, has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Television, Media Analytics and Emerging Platforms where he will manage a comprehensive set of media rights agreements between the conference and its four major media partners – Big Ten Network, CBS, ESPN, and FOX. Kenny will oversee the infusion of consumption trends and metrics for media and television data.
Nate Schnader joined the Big Ten Conference in 2020 and has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer. Schnader currently leads the transformation of how technology and data science integrate into the conference. He will steer all efforts in the creation of new interactive experiences centered around innovation, data, and analytics with a focus on accessibility.
“Data and Analytics will serve as an integral part of the Big Ten Conference,” said Warren. “We have a bold vision to create competitive advantages by pairing innovative ideas and cutting-edge technology with world-class talent. Our new Sports Data and Analytics Department will help us reach fans of today and tomorrow, transcend geographic borders, and create new mediums for engagement.”
Palermo, in her 13th year at the Big Ten Conference, previously served as the Big Ten Chief of Staff, Innovation and Operations. In this role, she managed internal and external operations for the league working closely with member institutions and Big Ten partners. Additionally, Palermo served as the primary liaison to the Big 10 Council of Presidents/Chancellors. She also directed the conference’s first men’s basketball tournaments located in Washington, D.C., and New York City, and was tasked with leading the opening of the Big Ten New York City office. Palermo received her undergraduate degree from Edgewood College and her Master of Professional Studies from Georgetown University.
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Kenny, in his 14th year at the Big 10 Conference, serves as a member of the conference’s senior leadership team and oversees the Television Administration department. In addition, Kenny leads the conference’s football, basketball, and Olympic scheduling efforts and provides strategy and counsel to the Commissioner and member institutions on future media rights agreements. Kenny received his undergraduate degree from Lafayette College where he was a member of the Men’s Varsity Basketball program.
Schnader joined the Big 10 Conference in 2020 as a member of its senior leadership team to lead digital transformation, information technology, and security operations. He is responsible for outlining and implementing the technological vision, strategy, and resources to serve the business needs of the Big 10 Conference. Prior to joining the Big Ten Conference, Schnader was a Principal at Charles River Associates where he led high-profile matters pertaining to digital forensics, incident response, and cyber security. Schnader received his undergraduate degree from Indiana University Bloomington.
