German esports organisation BIG (Berlin International Gaming) has appointed former Counter-Strike player Christian ‘Blizzard’ Chmiel as its Chief Operating Officer (COO).
In his role, Chmiel will collaborate with the organisation’s executive team and is expected to play an integral role in helping shape the organisation.
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Chmiel found success in Counter-Strike 1.6, winning CPL Spain in 2005 alongside nine ESL Pro Series championships. His appointment as COO marks his return to the industry after retiring from competitive play in 2010.
Following his retirement, embarked on a career in economic engineering with companies such as Viessmann and AVM.
Daniel Finkler, CEO of BIG, spoke on the appointment in a release: “I am very pleased to officially welcome Christian ‘Blizzard’ Chmiel, one of Germany’s greatest esports legends, to BIG.”
“After Christian Chmiel has already been able to successfully lead important projects within the organization for a longer time, including the establishment of the #GoBIG League and other partner projects, I am convinced that he will be able to take on new responsibilities with his outstanding skills.”
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The arrival of Chmiel marks the second personnel hire for BIG in 2022. On January 16th, the organisation announced former Counter-Strike player Roman ‘Roman R’ Reinhardt as its chief of CS:GO.
Newly-appointed COO added: “I am delighted to have found my way back into esports. Things that belong together are now coming together again! I am especially looking forward to working with old companions and esports pioneers at BIG again and to face many exciting challenges in my position as COO, and significantly contributing to the development and strategic direction of BIG.”
Esports Insider says: The appointment of Christian Chmiel is one of significance for BIG as it looks to build on a fruitful 2021. As COO, Chmiel will play an integral role in a range of business initiatives that will benefit the organisation.