Detroit Lions announce president and CEO Rod Wood is retiring, global search for successor

(Getty Images)

Allen Park — The Detroit Lions are in the market for a new team president. On Wednesday, the Lions announced Rod Wood is retiring after more than 10 years in the role.

“I want to thank the Ford Family and ultimately Lions fans everywhere for trusting me to lead the Detroit Lions for the last 11 seasons,” Wood said in a statement. “It has been an absolute thrill for me to lead this organization, and I am proud of what we have accomplished over that decade-plus. I am most proud of where I am leaving this organization, in the capable hands of Sheila Hamp, Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell.”

The Lions announced the hunt for Wood’s replacement will begin immediately with the process being led by executive search firm Russell Reynolds Associates. Wood will remain with the team until a successor has been selected before the 2026 season.

“The entire Ford family would like to thank Rod for his dedication and commitment to the Detroit Lions and the city of Detroit,” team owner Sheila Hamp said in a statement. “Rod has been a trusted advisor and passionate leader for our organization and the entire NFL during that time and has prepared our organization for a promising future. While Rod will be missed, we are excited to work with Russell Reynolds Associates to find the next dynamic leader of our business.”

Wood was named Lions president in 2015, just two weeks after the team parted with his predecessor, Tom Lewand. Wood formerly served as CEO of Ford Estates, advising the family on its business and investments. He worked as an executive vice president of wealth management for the Wilmington Trust Company in Wilmington, Delaware from 1999-2007.

During his tenure as team president and CEO, Wood oversaw a significant remodeling of Ford Field in 2017, which included updated suites, scoreboards and upgraded Wi-Fi, as well as numerous improvements at the team’s practice facility.

Wood also worked with local leaders to bring national sporting events to the city of Detroit, including the 2024 NFL Draft and the 2027 Final Four.

Wood was also part of a four-person leadership group, along with Hamp, advisor Chris Spielman and Chief Operating Officer Mike Disner, which hired general manager Brad Holmes and coach Dan Campbell in 2021. Those decisions fueled the franchise’s turnaround from perennial cellar dweller to a two-time division winner.