Chris McGowan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment (IS+E), announced today that Ron Colangelo has been named Senior Vice President of Communications and Broadcasting. Colangelo will lead all business and team communications functions across Ilitch Sports + Entertainment companies and properties, in addition to managing all local, national and league rightsholder relationships.
Colangelo, who previously held the title of Vice President of Communications with the Detroit Tigers, begins his new post immediately and reports directly to McGowan.
“Ron is one of the most respected communication executives in not just Detroit, but across all of professional sports, and we’re fortunate to have him taking on this expanded role,” said McGowan. “Connecting with our fans is at the center of everything we do, and Ron’s experience leading forward-thinking strategies to do just that are one of the many reasons we knew he was perfect for this position across our sports and entertainment properties.”
Colangelo’s experience in sports spans over three decades and includes roles in three of the professional sports leagues. Prior to joining the Tigers in 2008 he was most recently the Vice President, Communications for the New York Jets (2002-07); Vice President, Communications and Community Affairs for the Florida Marlins (1996-2002); and Assistant Director, Public/Media Relations for the Florida Panthers (1993-96).
“This is such an exciting time to be a sports fan in Detroit, and it’s an honor and a privilege to take on this responsibility,” said Colangelo. The Olde English ‘D’ and Winged Wheel are two of the most iconic brands in all of sports, and I’m proud to play a role in engaging the millions of passionate Tigers and Red Wings fans across the globe.”
Since joining the Tigers, Colangelo has led a team of communications professionals that collaborates with the media and broadcast rights holders daily, while acting as a liaison between the club’s social media team and uniform personnel. Overseeing the club’s day-to-day media and public relations, Colangelo continues to drive business impact for the club’s marketing, digital, community and sales initiatives, while also focusing on building brand equity beyond traditional media outlets.
Colangelo was born in New Jersey and holds a communications degree from William Paterson University and attended Arizona State University. He enjoys traveling with his family, with particular interest in exploring cultures throughout Europe and South America. Ron and his wife, Sandra, along with their three children, and two rescue dogs reside in Metro Detroit.
