Founder

Chris McGowan has over 30 years of experience in sports leadership across the NHL, MLS, NBA, NFL, and MLB. He is the only executive to serve as President and CEO for teams in all five major U.S. sports leagues. In June 2023, McGowan joined MLS as Chief Club Performance Officer, where he led the club performance group to drive strategy, best practices, and metrics for league growth. He also served as a key contact for MLS team owners and executives.

Prior to MLS, McGowan was President & CEO of Ilitch Sports and Entertainment, CEO of Vulcan Sports & Entertainment, and Chief Operating Officer of AEG Sports. At AEG, McGowan helped shape the company’s sports division, overseeing the LA Galaxy and Los Angeles Kings. He played a central role in the Galaxy’s MLS Cup wins, the Kings’ Stanley Cup victory, and the opening of the Staples Center. McGowan’s leadership earned him a spot on SportsBusiness Journal’s “40 Under 40” list in 2012.

At Vulcan, McGowan managed the Portland Trail Blazers and Seattle Seahawks, driving significant growth, including record ticket sales for the Trail Blazers. He was named “Business Executive of the Year” by the Portland Business Journal in 2017. McGowan also led operations for Ilitch Sports & Entertainment, overseeing the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Red Wings, and several venues, including overseeing major renovations at Comerica Park.

Along with his extensive experience in the sports business, McGowan is a lifelong soccer player and fan. McGowan played the sport throughout childhood and went on to become the captain of the soccer team at the University of Delaware. McGowan is married to Susan McGowan.