Technologist And Media Vet David Dibble Named Vice Chairman Of Sphere

David Dibble, a technologist and former senior executive at Cablevision and Yahoo, has been named vice chairman of Sphere.

The appointment by Sphere Entertainment will formalize Dibble’s work helping executives at the entertainment, tech and live event firm explore opportunities for Sphere’s proprietary technologies. Sphere’s lone location thus far is in Las Vegas, which has hosted live music acts and bespoke productions like a new, AI-fueled take on Wizard of Oz. The James Dolan-led firm has recently announced plans to build a scaled-down site in the Washington, D.C. area and a full-sized one in Abu Dhabi, with other sites under consideration for expansion.

One recent tech initiative Dibble has been involved with is Sphere Immersive Sound, a copyrighted audio system that Sphere has rolled out at Radio City Music Hall and plans to put in a range of other venues. In working on that project, Dibble was a special advisor to Dolan, who is executive chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment.

“David Dibble has been integral in helping shape the vision for Sphere from the very beginning,” Dolan said. “His commitment to technological innovation and his relentless drive to redefine what’s possible will be incredible assets as we extend Sphere’s leadership position, including across a global network of venues.”

Dibble said the company’s technology creates experiences that are “unlike anywhere else in the world.” He added that he looks forward to “continuing to work closely with Jim as we keep pushing boundaries and continue to solidify Sphere’s position at the forefront of immersive experiences.”

In 2016, Dibble joined Sphere Entertainment as CEO of MSG Ventures, which is focused on developing live entertainment technologies. This role extended across the MSG portfolio, which includes Sphere Entertainment, Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. and Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. In that role, Dibble played a key role in bringing Sphere from concept to reality.

Prior to joining Sphere, Dibble was Chief Technology Officer of Cablevision, which was controlled by the Dolans before being sold to French telecom giant Altice in 2015. He also spent six years at Yahoo serving in multiple executive roles.