Speakers
Dante Simpson, Co-Founder & CEO, ESPAT TV, Producer Call of Duty: The Film
Dr. Dante Simpson is an acclaimed award-winning Marketing Executive and serial entrepreneur. Simpson is currently the Co-founder and CEO of ESPAT TV, a premium gaming content agency and studio. ESPAT TV is a collaborative, comprised of industry leading production studios, led by Ridley Scott Creative Group and PRG, alongside the talented creatives of Zoic Studios, Petrol, Elite Edge Productions, The Famous Group & Disney’s InWorld. Since ESPAT Studios’ inception, in 2019, its collective has been a part of the gaming cultures most recognizable moments, including development and production of unforgettable immersive experiences (Travis Scott|Fortnite, Lil Nas X|Roblox, Post Malone|Pokemon, Ariana Grande|Rift Tour, etc.), NFL’s mixed-reality activation with Nickelodeon for the 2024 Super Bowl, the award-winning introduction of Balenciaga in the Fortnite metaverse (Grand Clio Award), and trailers and programming for the world’s most recognizable gaming titles. Previously, Simpson served as the Sr. Vice President of North American Business Development for SonyBMG Music Entertainment, where he led efforts for business development, growth, and campaigning. During his tenure, Simpson developed the division’s strategies into a highly successful revenue-generating business. Prior to SonyBMG, Simpson established himself as an industry leader while serving as Vice President of Business Design and Development for The Gucci Group where he implemented one of the most successful multi-channel marketing campaigns in the high-fashion industry, under the leadership of Creative Director Tom Ford. Simpson has overseen the rapid growth and expansion of organizations, as well as providing consultation to companies globally. His diverse body of work spans global gaming interests, branded entities, and high-profile influencers - both on content/technical production and campaign matters. Most recently, as co-Producer of CALL OF DUTY: THE FILM, ESPAT channels the high-octane energy and cinematic intensity that have defined a generation of blockbuster storytelling. Under the banner of ESPAT Studios, Simpson leads the creative and production vision for one of the most ambitious game-to-film adaptations ever mounted—where authenticity meets adrenaline. Merging the immersive realism of the legendary video game franchise with large-scale filmmaking, Paramount, Skydance & Activision have positioned CALL OF DUTY as a global entertainment event designed to ignite audiences across film, gaming, and streaming platforms. Earning a formidable reputation as a trailblazing marketing executive and change-agent in various spaces, coupled with his success at The Gucci Group, Sony BMG Music Entertainment, and boutique agency DSA Media Group (Associated Press, Sprite, Body Armor, Sony Pictures, Tulum Board of Tourism, iHeart Radio Music Fest, Bud Light and more), Simpson has been referred to as one of the most effective “behind-the-scenes” marketers/builders (according to AdWeek). Simpson is currently a board member of MMCA (Multicultural Media & Correspondents Association), recipient of the TNJ 40 Under 40, Effie Award winner, Clio Award winner, Billboard “Executives To Watch, Cannes Lions Digital Craft Grand Prix, and Webby Award winner (Super Bowl). Simpson received his Bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University, Master’s degree with cum laude distinction from New York University, and in 2023 received an Honorary Doctorate from Texas Christian University’s Harvest School. Continuing his accolades of 2023, Simpson received the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by President Joseph R. Biden, in a ceremony on Capitol Hill. Born in Rochester (NY) and raised in Atlanta (GA), Dr. Simpson currently resides in New Jersey.