The Chicago Bulls today named Michael Reinsdorf President and Chief Operating Officer. In the newly created position, Michael will oversee all business operations for the team and report to Jerry Reinsdorf, who will remain in his position as Chairman of the Board. General Manager Gar Forman and all of Basketball Operations will continue to report to Jerry Reinsdorf.
“Naming Michael President and COO reflects a natural progression of his growing role in the Bulls business organization, and publicly recognizes his contributions to the team,” said Bulls Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf. “I am proud of his accomplishments with the team, and in his own sports ventures, and believe his knowledge and experience will only strengthen what is an already solid management team.”
Michael has been involved in NBA league matters on behalf of the Bulls since 2001 and has served as an NBA Alternate Governor for the last three years. He is a founding partner for the International Facilities Group, a consulting company specializing in the development of sports and entertainment facilities across the country. He also serves as Chairman of the Harrisburg Senators (AA, Washington Nationals), where he oversaw $40 million in ballpark renovations and watched the team break several single-day and season-long attendance records in 2010.
Michael is a former owner of the Stockton Thunder, one of the premier franchises in the ECHL professional hockey league. During his five years of ownership, he saw the Thunder lead the league in attendance four of the last five seasons, while the Thunder made four straight appearances in the Kelly Cup championships.
“The Bulls winning tradition on and off the court is a part of my DNA,” Michael Reinsdorf said. “I know how much the team means to Chicago, to the NBA, and to fans all over the world. I am looking forward to being a more active, daily participant.”