Lon Rosen Named Head of Lakers Business Operations
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The Los Angeles Lakers have tapped longtime Los Angeles Dodgers executive Lon Rosen to oversee the franchise’s business operations, filling the vacancy that will be created when current president of business operations Tim Harris departs at the end of the season.
Rosen, 65, has served as executive vice president and chief marketing officer of the Dodgers since 2012. During his tenure, the baseball club led Major League Baseball in annual attendance nearly every season and posted consistent year-over-year revenue growth. He now moves across town as owner Mark Walter continues reshaping the Lakers after becoming majority owner earlier this season.
Rosen Outlines Priorities
In a statement released Tuesday, Rosen thanked governor Jeanie Buss and Walter for the opportunity: “I’m beyond grateful to Jeanie and Mark for trusting me with this incredible opportunity. As everyone knows, the economics of the sports business are constantly changing—and they will continue to do so. But, at root, my job is a simple one: figuring out how to do right by our employees and our partners while ensuring that the Lakers continue to provide an unparalleled experience for our fans in Los Angeles and around the world.”
Rosen added that he looks forward to working closely with Buss, general manager Rob Pelinka and the remainder of the front office.
Leadership Structure Remains Intact
Although Walter has already begun implementing changes aimed at replicating the Dodgers’ off-field success, the continued involvement of Buss and Pelinka suggests the franchise’s existing leadership structure will stay in place for the foreseeable future. Rosen’s public acknowledgment of both executives underscores that approach.
Background on the Team’s Ownership Shift
The Lakers were sold earlier this year to Walter for a record $10 billion valuation after years of internal debate within the Buss family. Jeanie Buss, whose tie-breaking vote approved the transaction, has said she believes her late father, Dr. Jerry Buss, would have supported the sale.
Rosen is expected to assume his new duties shortly after Harris officially steps down.
Source: lakersnation.com
