Zug, Switzerland – Infront is mourning the loss of Mark Buttermann, Director Summer Sports, one of its most long-standing and recognised senior managers. Mark was with the company for almost 20 years. He sadly passed last Friday 4 June at the age of 59 following a battle against ALS.
Philippe Blatter, Infront President & CEO, said: "Mark was a close friend and dear colleague. We both shared a long-standing passion for endurance sports and IRONMAN triathlons. Those who had the privilege of working closely with Mark were always struck by his deep-seated passion for sport, incredibly broad experience, genuine care for people, big heart and signature smile. We all owe him a great deal of gratitude for his extraordinary contribution and relentless support, even during times of severe personal health challenges. He will never be forgotten. Our deepest sympathies are now with his family and close friends."
Mark played a major role in managing a broad array of different aspects of Infront's business during his almost two-decade long tenure with the company. He covered major projects in cycling, handball, endurance sports, winter sports, personal & corporate fitness, and football among many others. He used his experience to contribute to various specialised areas such as event marketing, sports property development, content production and event hospitality.
Born and raised in Santa Monica, CA (USA), Mark was an avid sportsman who never lacked ambition, passion and proficiency across many different disciplines including cycling, sailing, swimming, running, mountaineering and skiing.
He started his career in sports business more than 30 years ago in the early 1990s when he was named Director of Marketing for the Fairfax-based World Cup USA 1994 Inc., laying the groundwork for the marketing and promotional program of first FIFA World Cup on North American soil.
In 1992 he joined the Swiss sports marketing company ISL Worldwide, based in Lucerne, where he worked for almost a decade on major football, athletics and hospitality projects, eventually becoming Vice President and Head of Hospitality. During his time at ISL he covered world events such as the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Euro, African Cup of Nations and the IAAF World Championship.
He was a part of the Infront family from the very early days of the company and was a well-respected and much-loved member of the team. He will be sadly missed.
