Toronto FC's ownership group Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Ltd. announced on Thursday that MLSE president and CEO Tim Leiweke will step down from his post on June 30, 2015 or until a successor is appointed.
Widely seen as the chief architect of TFC's dramatic resurgence both on and off the field this year, Leiweke “plans to pursue his goal of owning and operating his own business following his departure,” according to a press release.
“It’s an honor to lead MLSE, a world-class organization in a city and a country so passionate about sports. But with new opportunities on the horizon, it’s time for me to begin the transition from sports and entertainment executive to entrepreneur,” said Leiweke in a statement.
“Right now, my total focus is here at MLSE and I look forward to working with the Board and MLSE team to continue strengthening our franchises while ensuring a smooth transition to a new leader.”
Leiweke joined MLSE in June 2013 following a long stint as president and CEO of Anschutz Entertainment Group, the LA Galaxy's owner/operators and part-owners of the Houston Dynamo. He was a leading force in the high-profile acquisitions of Jermaine Defoe and Michael Bradley and the implementation of a major renovation project at BMO Field.
“Under Tim’s leadership, MLSE has made a number of key moves to strengthen our organization on the path to championship success,” said MLSE chairman Larry Tanenbaum in a statment. “We look forward to working closely with Tim to build on this foundation and further accelerate our momentum as we seek a new leader for MLSE.”
