MUMBAI: It’s a power move in the world of competitive gaming. Yusuf Batliwala has been appointed senior director for global partnerships at Hero Esports, bringing with him nearly two decades of cross-continental experience across entertainment, media, and gaming. Based out of Singapore, Batliwala officially took charge in June 2025.

Batliwala’s new role will see him leading Hero Esports’ global partnership strategy forging collaborations, securing brand alliances, and expanding the company’s footprint in international markets. With esports exploding into a mainstream spectacle, Hero Esports appears to be stacking its deck with strategic firepower.

Before joining Hero Esports, Batliwala served as senior sponsorship strategist for the Esports World Cup Riyadh 2024, a high-stakes tournament that cemented Saudi Arabia’s place on the global esports map. He was previously associate director for strategic partnerships at Singtel, where he shaped digital entertainment initiatives across Southeast Asia. His diverse experience also includes stints with Bytedance, BBC, and Getty Images.

Having worn multiple hats from content sales and sponsorships to strategic partnerships and business development Batliwala is no stranger to navigating the fast-evolving intersections of media, tech, and culture.

With Hero Esports expanding rapidly across Asia, Batliwala’s appointment signals the company’s ambition to level up its global playbook. As esports matures into a billion-dollar business, industry insiders will be watching closely to see how Batliwala’s deal-making and brand-building expertise helps unlock the next phase of Hero’s journey.

Game face on the global esports arena just got a little more interesting.