3 Key Points
- Keith Pelley has been appointed as the new President and CEO of MLSE.
- Pelley previously led the Toronto Argonauts to a Grey Cup win in 2004.
- MLSE is the major sports conglomerate in Toronto, overseeing several teams.
Keith Pelley Takes Helm at MLSE
Toronto’s sports landscape is poised for new leadership as Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE) brings on Keith Pelley as President and CEO. This key appointment was reported by TSN’s Rick Westhead and signifies the start of a fresh chapter for MLSE, the organization that owns the Toronto Argonauts, Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, and Toronto FC, alongside their affiliate minor league teams.
Pelley’s History with Toronto Argonauts
Pelley is familiar with the reins of a Toronto sports team, having guided the Argonauts from 2003 to 2007. Under his leadership, the Argonauts clinched the 92nd Grey Cup with a victory over the B.C. Lions. This win was a significant moment, ending a seven-year championship drought for the team. His career in sports management began with TSN, climbing the ladder from editorial assistant to event producer, and eventually leading TSN as president.
Extensive Background in Media and Sports Management
Pelley’s experience extends beyond Canadian football, marked by significant roles in Olympic broadcasting and strategic planning with the CTV Television Network. His tenure at Rogers Media was highlighted by a monumental broadcasting deal with the NHL, securing Canadian rights for a 12-year period. Since 2015, Pelley has been a central figure in the world of professional golf, steering the PGA European Tour and engaging in critical discussions with emergent golf tours.
The Search for MLSE Leadership Concludes
Following the departure of former MLSE President and CEO Michael Friisdahl in 2022, the search for a new leader has concluded with Pelley’s appointment. In this role, Pelley succeeds Cynthia Devine, who served as the acting CEO in the interim.
Pelley’s leadership skills, media expertise, and previous success with the Toronto Argonauts will be crucial as he takes on the challenges and opportunities associated with overseeing MLSE’s diverse portfolio of sports franchises.
