SVG All-Stars: Mimi Fotopoulos, Director, Talent and Production Operations, Tennis Channel

The former star tennis player excels on the TV side of the sport she loves

As the pace of change in sports production shows no signs of slowing, a new class of innovators and decision-makers is shaping the industry’s future. Now in its second season, our SVG All-Stars series spotlights the rising leaders driving that transformation, offering a look at their career paths, leadership philosophies, creative and technological contributions, and vision for what comes next. Each conversation introduces you to the people redefining the workflows, culture, and possibilities of live sports production.

When it comes to global tennis, Mimi Fotopoulos is everywhere her favorite sport goes. As Director, Talent and Production Operations for Tennis Channel, she helps orchestrate the broadcaster’s year-round live coverage of tournaments across multiple continents — including recent productions of the WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and ATP Finals in Turin, Italy — ensuring seamless logistics, talent coordination, and production execution for one of the most demanding schedules in live sports television.

A former collegiate and professional tennis player, Fotopoulos brings to her leadership role behind the camera the same focus and competitive spirit that once powered her on the court. Since joining Tennis Channel in 2018, she has risen through the ranks from scorebug operator to one of the broadcaster’s key operational leaders, helping the channel adapt to the evolving world of multiplatform coverage across linear, digital, and streaming outlets.

Fotopoulos at her favorite event to work, Wimbledon (Photos: Tennis Channel)

In this edition of SVG All-Stars, Fotopoulos shares her perspective on leading with empathy and energy, balancing nonstop global logistics, and turning a lifelong passion for tennis into a powerhouse production career.

What are the key responsibilities of your current role?
I oversee talent scheduling, production logistics, and contract management, ensuring effective coordination and execution. I work closely with our executive producer to develop and execute talent and production plans across multiple platforms, maintaining operational efficiency and consistency to enable seamless broadcasts and exceptional on-air performance.

What is one key industry trend that you believe is having a major impact on your organization right now?
One key trend impacting Tennis Channel is the shift to streaming and direct-to-consumer platforms. It requires us to be versatile across TV, digital, and social media while driving production innovation to deliver immersive, multiplatform tennis coverage to a global audience.

Fotopoulos (second from right) at the 2025 Miami Open with Tennis Channel studio host and analysts (from left) Dani Klupenger, Martina Navratilova, and Prakash Amritraj

What is one core philosophy you try to live by when managing your team/operation?
My philosophy is to lead with empathy, communication, and clarity. Great results happen when people feel heard, trusted, and supported. I strive to create an environment where collaboration thrives and everyone understands how their role contributes to the bigger picture. I also bring infectious energy, upbeat positivity, and a passion for excellence to everything we do, because, when people feel valued and inspired, they bring their best, and that elevates every production.

What is your favorite event(s) you’ve ever worked?
Wimbledon stands out as my favorite event. As a tennis player, I dreamed of being part of it, and I feel honored to have had the opportunity to represent Tennis Channel there for many years. Working in multiple production roles over the years to bring the tournament to life has allowed me to see my personal and professional growth, and I’m grateful to our leadership for trusting me with such a prestigious event.

In addition to Wimbledon, I’ve also had the privilege of working onsite for our coverage of Roland Garros in Paris and the US Open in New York City, as well as contributing to our Australian Open coverage. Each tournament brings its own unique energy and challenges, and being part of all four Grand Slams has been an incredibly rewarding experience.

Fotopoulos at Roland Garros to work the 2025 French Open

How did you get started in sports production? What was your first job in the business?
I got my start as the executive assistant to the production department and Bob Whyley, EP/SVP of Production. I’m so thankful that he gave me the opportunity and took a chance on me all those years ago. It has been incredibly rewarding to have people believe in me from the very beginning. From day one, I was immersed in the fast-paced world of live production, learning from some of the best in the business. I feel incredibly fortunate to live my dream and pursue my passion every day. It’s a privilege to work in a field and at a company that combines creativity, teamwork, and storytelling at the highest level.

What’s one piece of advice you have for someone just starting their career in this industry?
Be curious, be dependable, be you, and never underestimate the power of relationships. Say yes to learning opportunities, be kind, and don’t be afraid to be gritty and roll up your sleeves. Every job, no matter how small, builds your foundation for what’s next. This industry is built on teamwork and trust. If you bring a positive attitude and an infectious passion for what you do and pair that with genuine commitment to excellence, doors will open.

To read more of the SVG All-Stars series, CLICK HERE.