BUSINESS: 100 Thieves COO John Robinson steps down

100 Thieves’ John Robinson has stepped down as the organization’s President and COO.

Robinson tweeted March 15th that he will be transitioning to an advisory role within the storied esports organization.

“After an incredible six year adventure, I’m stepping down as President & COO at 100 Thieves and transitioning to Advisor. I’m so proud of everything that we’ve accomplished as a team since our humble start in LCS and our first hoodie drop. I’ll never forget celebrating our championship moments, and I’ll always be rooting for 100 Thieves,” Robinson said in his post.

Colleagues came out to thank Robinson for his contributions in 100 Thieves.

100 Thieves’ Brand Director Gabriel Ruiz said in his tweet, “I wouldn’t be the creative/person I am today without 6+ years of your guidance. What an incredible run! I couldn’t be more thankful for what we’ve built together and I know for a fact we will continue to make you proud!”

100 Thieves co-owner Jack “CouRage” Dunlop added, “Thank you for everything, John. 100 Thieves wouldn’t be what it is today without you. I’m forever grateful for all the guidance and opportunities you shared over the years. Enjoy being a husband, dad, and below average Valorant player for a bit. All love to you, brother.”

Alongside 100 Thieves CEO and co-founder Matthew “Nadeshot” Haag, Robinson competed in a variety of esports titles and won various championships such as the 2021 LCS Championship and the 2022 Call of Duty League Championship.

Robinson also helped steer 100 Thieves to lucrative business partnerships and deals, such as the launch of its own gaming studio and energy drink brand. The said drink brand, Juvee, was eventually spun off and sold to the Sprecher Brewing Company.

100 Thieves will now be led by Jacob Toft-Andersen, who was brought into the organization after leaving the parent company of OpTic Gaming. Julie Van will replace Robinson as COO. Van last served as VP of People and Culture for Lucky Strike Entertainment before joining 100T in 2020.

“Feeling very grateful today for all the talented staff, players, coaches, and creators I got to work with over the years, as well as all of our partners who supported our journey. I’m especially happy to pass the baton to Jason (Ton), Jacob, and Julie, who are all being promoted today to take on larger roles – they’ve been core to 100 Thieves’ success and I’m excited to see them lead the company to new heights over the years to come,” Robinson also tweeted.

100 Thieves is an esports and lifestyle gaming organization founded in 2017. Venture capitalists helped grow 100T as one of the biggest gaming brands in the world, with Series A and Series funding coming from big-name investors such as rap music superstar Drake, music producer Scooter Braun, and the CEOs of Salesforce and Dropbox. Combined, 100 Thieves received US$120 million.

100 Thieves also manages some of the world’s most popular content creators, such as Rachel “Valkyrae” Hofstetter and previously managed Kyedae Shymko.