Ilitch Companies promotes Gustafson to lead Ilitch Sports + Entertainment

Ilitch Companies on Monday named Ryan Gustafson the president and CEO of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, a promotion from his role as executive vice president and chief operating officer.

In his new position, Gustafson will lead business operations for the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, Little Caesars Arena, Comerica Park and Fox Theatre, the company said. He will also oversee the joint venture interest in 313 Presents and manage the business operations for the Lakeland Flying Tigers, the Tigers’ Single-A affiliate. 

The company said in a press release it has "no immediate plans to announce a successor " for his current EVP and COO role, which he's held since March 2023.

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“Ryan’s collaborative and inclusive leadership style, business and analytical acumen, and passion for enhancing the fan experience has resulted in incredible accomplishments in a short time,” Ilitch Companies CEO Chris Ilitch said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to his continued success as he leads Ilitch Sports + Entertainment into the future.”

In his time with the company, Gustafson has played an important part in the multi-year renovation and expansion of the home clubhouse at Comerica Park. He aided in making significant upgrades to field lighting, outfield wall reconfiguration and audio and video system enhancements. Going forward, he will play an important role in planning a new dormitory at the club’s Lakeland complex, and new a baseball academy in the Dominican Republic.

Gustafson joined the Ilitch organization in 2022 after working for the San Diego Padres and the Seattle Sounders of Major League Soccer. He was promoted by Ilitch in March, after Chris McGowan decided to leave the company. Gustafson's background in sports includes 15 years of strategic planning and revenue generation.

“Sports and live entertainment have a tremendous power to unify communities in hometowns and around the globe," Gustafson said in a statement. "And at Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, we are proud to bring together some of the most iconic brands in sports and entertainment to fulfill our mission to amaze, inspire, and unite.”  

Staff writer Tony Paul contributed.

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