Detroit Lions name Pistons COO Richard Haddad as team's new president and CEO
Allen Park — The Detroit Lions’ global search for Rod Wood’s replacement as president and CEO landed on a fit in the team’s backyard.
On Wednesday, the Lions announced the hiring of Detroit Pistons COO Richard Haddad for the role. He will start with the franchise in early September, assuming oversight of the team’s football and business operations, working closely with owner Sheila Hamp.
“Rich is a proven leader who understands what it means to steward an iconic sports franchise in the city of Detroit, and we are thrilled that he is bringing that experience to the Lions,” Hamp said in a statement. “Throughout our process, Rich’s experience, steady leadership style, and grasp on the present and future state of team sports were clear differentiators. My family and I are excited to work with Rich on driving the Lions forward in our continued pursuit to bring a championship to Detroit.”
Haddad spent 14 years with the Pistons, starting as an EVP of business affairs before his promotion to COO in 2022.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Rich for his leadership and the impact he’s had on our organization and our city over the past 14 years,” Pistons owner Tom Gores said in a statement. “(Vice president) Arn (Tellem) and I have especially appreciated his steady counsel, integrity and commitment. Rich has been an outstanding leader and a trusted partner in so many of our efforts to make a positive difference in the community. I have tremendous respect for Sheila, the Lions organization and everything they represent for Detroit. We’re excited for Rich and know he’ll do a tremendous job in his new role.”
A Michigan native, Haddad attended the University of Michigan as an undergraduate and received a doctorate of law from Columbia.
“I am thrilled to join the Detroit Lions organization as its next President and CEO,” Haddad said in a statement. “I want to thank Sheila Hamp and the Ford family for their trust in me, along with Tom Gores and Arn Tellem for 14 great years with the Pistons.
“As a lifelong Lions fan, I understand firsthand how much this team means to this city and state, and I’m honored and humbled to lead this franchise,” Haddad said. “Sheila, Rod, Brad (Holmes) and Dan (Campbell) have built an incredible foundation, and I can’t wait to work with them to build on that and deliver for our fans and our community.”
Haddad replaces Wood, who served more than 10 years as team president. He announced his intention to retire in February, but will stay on with the organization to assist Haddad with the transition.
Sure hope Mike Disner stays with Lions managing the cap and salaries…
But is he a Michigan Native?