Looking for a job

Keri Willis

@keriwillis

I build profitable, scalable operations through cross-functional leadership, process improvement, and resource planning.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I'm looking to lead business operations and cross-functional initiatives where I can improve processes, strengthen financial performance, build accountable teams, and turn complex operational challenges into practical systems.

At Ross Production Services, I directed business operations, redesigned workflows and SOPs, and helped deliver the organization’s first gross profit after more than four years of losses.

I spent over two decades at ESPN leading talent operations, production scheduling, and live-event planning. I managed teams of 20+ and a $7M budget for the inaugural College Football Playoff while aligning staffing, contracts, resources, and business priorities.

I translate complex operational challenges into practical systems, performance metrics, and standard operating procedures. I also bring a strong commitment to inclusion through leadership roles with Ross Video IDEA, ESPN SALUTE, and Disney advisory committees.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Director, Business Operations

Ross Production Services / Ross Video

Jan 2024 - Jan 2026 (2 years)

Directed operational aspects for a production services organization, establishing processes, performance standards, and operational best practices. Analyzed and redesigned SOPs and workflows to improve efficiency and profitability, supported ERP implementation, and led staffing and communication efforts.

Process Improvement SOP Design ERP Implementation Financial Analysis Staffing Communication Skills Leadership

Director, Management Operations

ESPN

Jan 2014 - Jan 2023 (9 years)

Led Talent Operations and Production Scheduling teams of 20+ managers and individual contributors, balancing workforce capacity and business priorities. Directed talent contract administration, oversaw production scheduling, led performance management, and co-chaired ESPN SALUTE.

Talent Operations Production Scheduling Contract Management Performance Management Leadership Data Driven Decision Making

Production Manager, Event Production

ESPN

Jan 2011 - Jan 2014 (3 years)

Directed end-to-end operational planning and delivery for assigned sport properties, coordinating personnel, resources, schedules, budgets, and contractual requirements. Led operational planning for the inaugural College Football Playoff and contributed to freelance workforce transformation.

Event Planning Budget Management Resource Coordination Stakeholder Management Freelance Management

Senior Production Coordinator, Event Production

ESPN

Jan 2007 - Jan 2011 (4 years)

Managed production logistics, personnel and resource scheduling, and on-site operations for major ESPN properties including Major League Baseball, College Football, College GameDay, and the Little League World Series. Coordinated internal resources and external partners across complex live-event operations.

Production and Logistics Scheduling On site Operations Live Events Stakeholder Coordination

Production Coordinator, Event Production

ESPN

Jan 2006 - Jan 2007 (1 year)

Served as key production liaison working cross-functionally with Remote Operations, Travel, Finance, HR, and Legal. Coordinated personnel, travel, communications, and scheduling for live events and studio shows, managed freelance contracts, and supervised staff.

Cross functional Coordination Event Planning Freelance Management Staff Supervision Budget Management

Production Assistant, Studio Production

ESPN

Jan 2001 - Jan 2006 (5 years)

Researched and produced content including feature pieces, video montages, highlights and analysis tapes for Studio Production shows including SportsCenter and Baseball Tonight. Liaised with on-air talent and production staff, and managed content library for remote events.

Content Production Research Video Editing Talent Liaison Content Management