The Pittsburgh Penguins and Fenway Sports Group (FSG) announced today that David Morehouse has stepped down as CEO of the Penguins.
David Morehouse said, “After sixteen amazing and rewarding years as an executive with the Pittsburgh Penguins, I step down today as President and CEO.
“I want to thank Ron Burkle and Mario Lemieux for giving me a chance in 2007 and giving this Pittsburgh kid the dream of a lifetime to manage his home hockey team. I’ve been fortunate in those 16 years that it’s never felt like a “job”. It’s always felt like a partnership – with owners, players, coaches, staff and Pittsburgh fans. We’ve had some incredible times together, including three Stanley Cups and watching Pittsburgh transform into a veritable hockey town.
“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 victory, and that has always been the Pittsburgh Penguins’ philosophy. They have experience running successful franchises and we have some of the best staff in the sport already in place. Together, the Penguins legacy is sure to continue.
“Thank you 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 will be stepping down from his role as CEO and we have accepted his decision. Brian Burke and Kevin Acklin will continue to manage day-to-day operations. day-to-day running of the club.
“As the leader of the Penguins franchise for nearly a decade and a half, David presided over an era that is impressive by any measure. We are grateful for the leadership he has provided during this remarkable time overseeing the construction of a new arena. Sell-out records and Stanley Cup championships. David has been instrumental in making the Penguins one of the most successful franchises in the NHL and we are grateful for the immense time, energy and love he has put into the organization.”
Morehouse joined the team in 2004 as a consultant on the new arena project and was named team president in April 2007. He was given the additional responsibilities of Chief Executive Officer when the team’s new arena opened in August 2010. During his tenure as a senior executive with the Penguins, the team won three Stanley Cups, made four cup finals, and made five conference finals. He helped the Penguins become one of the NHL’s strongest businesses by selling out every game for over 14 seasons, setting new standards in 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 sports performance complex. He joined the Penguins after a career in national politics that included stints at the White House, Pentagon and Capitol Hill, and key roles in two presidential campaigns.