The Pittsburgh Penguins and Fenway Sports Group (FSG) announced today that David Morehouse has resigned as CEO of The Penguins.
David Morehouse said, “After sixteen remarkable and rewarding years as a Senior Executive Director at Pittsburgh Penguins, I am stepping down today as President and CEO.
“I would like to thank Ron Burkell and Mario Lemieux for taking the opportunity in 2007 and giving this Pittsburgh kid the dream of a lifetime to run his hometown hockey team. During those 16 years, I was fortunate enough that this never really felt like a “job.” I felt Always as a partnership – with the property, players, coaches, staff and fans of Pittsburgh.We’ve had some great times together, including three Stanley Cups and watching Pittsburgh transform into a true hockey city.
“Most importantly, I want to thank my family for the support they have given me during this time.
“I am confident that the future of the Penguins is in good hands with Fenway Sports Group. The new ownership group prioritizes winning which has always been the philosophy of Pittsburgh Penguins. They have experience running successful franchises and we have some of the best in the sports industry already in place. Together, they are sure to be The legacy of the penguins will continue.
“Thank you so much for all your support, and as always, Let’s Go Pens.”
Fenway Sports Group principal owner John Henry and Chairman Tom Werner said: “David informed us today that he is stepping down as CEO and we have accepted his decision. Brian Burke and Kevin Acklen will continue to direct the day-to-day operations of the club.
“As captain of the Penguins Series for nearly a decade and a half, David has presided over a tremendous era in all respects. We are grateful for the leadership he has provided throughout such an impressive period, overseeing new arena construction, record sales, and the Stanley Cup championships. David has been instrumental in the Penguins has made one of the most successful franchises in the NHL, and we are grateful for the tremendous time, energy and love he has put into the organization.”
Morehouse joined the team as a consultant on the New Arena project in 2004 and was appointed team leader in April 2007. He was assigned additional CEO responsibilities immediately after the team’s new arena opened in August 2010. During his tenure as CEO with the Penguins, the team won three Cups. Stanley, a cup finalist four times, and a conference finalist five times. He has helped the Penguins become one of the most powerful commercial entities in the NHL, selling every game for over 14 seasons, setting new standards for television ratings and corporate partnerships, and increasing the team’s focus on innovative youth marketing.
Morehouse was a driving force behind the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex, which opened in August 2015. It is the first facility to combine hockey with a world-class medical center and performance sports complex. He joined the Penguins after a career in national politics that included stints at the White House, the Pentagon, and on Capitol Hill, as well as key roles in two presidential campaigns.