Detroit — Chris McGowan, a previous govt with the NBA’s Portland Path Blazers and the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks, has been named president and CEO of Ilitch Sports activities & Entertainment.
In the position, McGowan will oversee the organization division of the Tigers, Purple Wings, The District Detroit, Olympia Parking and the Ilitches’ stake in 313 Offers.
McGowan, who replaces Chris Granger and commences his career Jan. 3, will report directly to Christopher Ilitch.
“We are extremely excited to welcome Chris and his spouse and children to Detroit and our group,” Ilitch, president and CEO of Ilitch Holdings, reported in a statement “He has a confirmed observe file in specialist athletics and live leisure, and a passion for generating exceptional experiences. I glimpse ahead to working with Chris and his team to supply impressive, participating, and inspiring programming and strategies that will enchantment to our admirers, colleagues, and companions.”
Reported McGowan: “I’m thrilled about the prospect to be part of the Ilitch organization and to direct Ilitch Sports activities and Leisure. It’s an exciting time for both of those the Crimson Wings and Tigers, and The District Detroit is a sports and entertainment epicenter as opposed to any other in the nation. I glimpse forward to getting started off and assisting deliver unforgettable experiences to the fantastic men and women of Detroit and over and above for years to occur.”
Ilitch Sporting activities & Entertainment oversees profits and marketing inside the Ilitch empire, and oversees venues these as Comerica Park, Very little Caesars Arena and Fox Theatre, and many Metro Detroit concert venues.
McGowan was president and CEO of the Portland Path Blazers from 2012 right until he resigned in November amid allegations of place of work misconduct levied in opposition to Neil Olshey, president of basketball functions.
One particular of McGowan’s last noteworthy moves was employing previous Piston Chauncey Billups to be the Blazers’ coach.
McGowan also was CEO of Vulcan Sporting activities & Enjoyment, which in element oversaw the Seahawks and Big League Soccer’s Seattle Sounders. Formerly, McGowan worked with Los Angeles-centered AEG, and was promoted to COO by the time he remaining. He helped open the Staples Centre, now Crypto.com Arena.
A graduate of the University of Delaware, McGowan is married to Susan, and the couple has two sons.
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