Steve Griggs Named New Lightning President

(Source: www.laurierathletics.com)

It was a big day for another Steve with the Tampa Bay Lightning organization as the team’s chief operating officer, Steve Griggs, was promoted to team president on Monday afternoon. Officially Griggs has been named president of the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Tampa Bay Times Forum. He will now be responsible for all business units of the organization. 

“Steve has done a wonderful job for us over the past three-plus years, working with CEO Tod Leiweke and our leadership team to transform the business and develop the brands of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Tampa Bay Times Forum and the Tampa Bay Storm,” said Vinik upon making the announcement. “I am very pleased to name him president today and I look forward to our continued growth as a company and a leader in the Tampa Bay community. The development of our Lightning team on the ice, in conjunction with the growth of our business, undoubtedly positions our organization for a very bright future.”

Griggs has managed a leadership team with the Lightning that has rebranded the organization. It has lead to revenue growth, and created a guest experience that has become nationally recognized. He helped the Forum with their $60 million renovation, as well as the doubling of season ticket sales. This ultimately led to a ranking of #2 among 123 major sports franchises by ESPN the Magazine in 2011.

“I graciously accept this new role and thank Jeff Vinik and Tod Leiweke for giving me the opportunity,” said Griggs. “We have a great management team and very dedicated employees and I truly believe all of us in the organization work for the best owner in professional sports. I look forward to continuing on his mission of developing a world class organization on and off the ice.”

Prior to joining Tampa Bay, he worked with the Orlando Magic (Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing-3 years), the Minnesota Wild (Vice President of Sales and Marketing-8 years) and Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment (various roles–6 years), leading sales and marketing initiatives and strategies for each, while also opening a new arena in each locale.