David ‘Doc’ O’Connor Named MSG President and CEO

TheWrap exclusively reported last week that CAA senior partner would depart to lead Madison Square Garden Company

David O'Connor

The Madison Square Garden Company on Tuesday announced that David “Doc” O’Connor has officially been named president and chief executive officer, effective July 15. TheWrap exclusively reported last week that this appointment was coming; O’Connor replaces Tad Smith in the top role.

O’Connor departs Creative Artists Agency after three-plus decades at the worldwide entertainment and sports agency, becoming the first departing senior partner since private equity firm TPG bought a majority stake in October 2014. For the past 20 years, he was the firm’s managing partner.

“Doc is more than a great partner and business executive; he’s an incredible person and close friend whom we’ve had the tremendous pleasure of working with for more than 30 years,” the remaining CAA Partners told TheWrap on Tuesday. “We couldn’t be happier for Doc. It’s a dream come true for a lifelong New York sports fan, and we know he will be terrific in his new role.”

O’Connor oversaw the 2006 launch of CAA Sports, which currently represents more than 1,000 athletes, coaches and broadcasters.

In the role, O’Connor has steadily been working with MSG. O’Connor actually began working in the CAA mailroom in 1983, though he was soon promoted to agent in the motion picture department.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Doc, who brings with him an extensive understanding of the entertainment and sports worlds, including deep industry relationships and a history of successfully creating platforms for growth,” said James Dolan, MSG’s executive chairman who has been filling in as CEO on an interim basis. “We are confident that his expertise will be crucial to our efforts to strengthen our legendary brands and pursue growth opportunities that expand our business and increase shareholder value.”

“Growing up in New Jersey, some of my earliest and fondest memories involve The Madison Square Garden Company — from my first professional hockey and basketball games to my first rock concert to Radio City Music Hall and the Christmas Spectacular. It is a privilege for me to come full circle and work with MSG’s legendary brands,” O’Connor said.

“I believe my experience and relationships in the sports and entertainment industries have given me a unique perspective on how to maximize assets and pursue strategic growth, and I look forward to working with the well-respected management team and employees across MSG to help lead the company into its next celebrated chapter.”

The Madison Square Garden Company is comprised of three business segments: MSG Sports, MSG Media and MSG Entertainment. MSG Sports owns and operates the New York Knicks (NBA), the New York Rangers (NHL), the New York Liberty (WNBA), the Westchester Knicks (NBADL) and the Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL).

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