Panthers Start New Chapter as CEO Steps Down

Big modifications are underway in Sunrise, they usually’re occurring off the ice.

The Florida Panthers introduced Wednesday that President and CEO Matthew Caldwell will step down after almost a decade with the franchise. Caldwell is leaving to develop into the brand new CEO of the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves and WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx.

Caldwell joined the Panthers in 2014 and shortly turned a central determine in reshaping a staff as soon as struggling for relevance. Under his management, the Panthers developed right into a back-to-back Stanley Cup champion with a fame for stability and ambition. He performed a key function in constructing the group’s identification each on the ice and behind the scenes.

In reflecting on his tenure, Caldwell known as his time in Sunrise “the highlight of my professional career,” and thanked the Viola household, homeowners of the Panthers. “I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to have led this historic franchise turnaround,” he mentioned.

That turnaround included a number of pivotal strikes. Caldwell was instrumental in hiring General Manager Bill Zito in 2020, a call that has paid dividends with Zito assembling one of many NHL’s deepest and best rosters. He additionally helped oversee the event of the staff’s state-of-the-art apply facility in Fort Lauderdale, an indication of the group’s dedication to long-term success.

Panthers proprietor Vincent Viola praised Caldwell’s management, noting his impression throughout all facets of the franchise. “Matt has led by example, serving our employees, clients, fans and the South Florida community with passion and professionalism,” Viola mentioned. “His determination drove our franchise turnaround and helped instill a culture of excellence.”

While Viola acknowledged it’s bittersweet to see Caldwell depart, he mentioned the transfer represents a “tremendously exceptional opportunity” as Caldwell joins the Timberwolves and Lynx alongside high-profile homeowners Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore.

The Panthers are turning to a well-known face to succeed Caldwell. Rob Stevenson, who has served as Executive Vice President of People and Facilities for the previous three years, has been appointed CEO. Stevenson will oversee Operations, Facilities Management, Event Services, Live Entertainment, Hospitality, and the Panthers IceDen and FTL War Memorial complicated.

The management shuffle extends additional. Mark Zarthar, beforehand Chief Strategy Officer, has been promoted to Chief Revenue Officer, taking up further duties for Corporate Partnerships and Ticket Sales & Service, whereas persevering with to supervise Business Intelligence, Brand Strategy, Broadcast, Communications, and Ticket Operations. He fills a task vacated by Shawn Thornton, the previous NHL enforcer who later transitioned into the Panthers’ government ranks. Thornton’s subsequent profession step has not but been introduced.

Another departure comes with Chief Operating Officer Bryce Hollweg stepping down. Michael Viola, the proprietor’s son and staff alternate governor, will oversee the seek for a brand new President of Business Operations and handle the management transition.

For the Panthers, the summer time has been one among celebration on the ice, however these strikes sign a brand new chapter within the entrance workplace. Caldwell departs with an enduring legacy, having guided the Panthers from a struggling franchise to a hockey powerhouse. With new management in place, the main target now turns to sustaining the championship customary he helped set up.