Lions Name Richard Haddad President and CEO Following 14 Years with Pistons

The Detroit Lions announced Wednesday that Richard Haddad will join the organization in early September to oversee all football and business operations.

DETROIT -- The Detroit Lions announced Wednesday the appointment of Richard Haddad as the franchise's new president and CEO. Haddad, an Adrian, Michigan native, arrives at the organization following a 14-year tenure with Pistons Sports & Entertainment and the Detroit Pistons. He is scheduled to officially join the team in early September, assuming a role that includes oversight of all football and business operations while establishing a vision for the future growth of both the team and Ford Field.

This executive transition follows the February retirement announcement of Rod Wood, who stepped down ahead of the 2026 season. Wood will remain with the organization through the transition phase to provide guidance to Haddad. The new president will work in close proximity to Lions team owner Sheila Hamp, who characterized Haddad as a proven leader with a firm grasp on the present and future state of team sports during the selection process.

Transition from Pistons Sports & Entertainment

Haddad currently serves as the chief operating officer for the Detroit Pistons. During his 14 years with the NBA franchise, he played a pivotal role in the team's relocation from Auburn Hills back to the city of Detroit. His professional portfolio includes the development, construction, and opening of the Henry Ford Detroit Pistons Performance Center. Additionally, he spearheaded efforts to return a WNBA team to Detroit, which involved developing a dedicated WNBA team headquarters and practice facility located on the Detroit riverfront.

In a released statement, Haddad expressed gratitude toward Pistons owner Tom Gores and vice chairman Arn Tellem for his time with the basketball organization. He identified himself as a lifelong Lions fan and noted the significance of the franchise to the city and state of Michigan. His new responsibilities involve collaborating with the existing leadership core, including Hamp, Wood, general manager Brad Holmes, and head coach Dan Campbell.

Strategic Vision for Ford Field and Football Operations

Sheila Hamp emphasized that Haddad’s experience in stewarding an iconic sports franchise was a primary differentiator during the search. The Ford family aims to utilize Haddad’s leadership to drive the organization toward a championship. His dual mandate covers the strategic growth of the Lions' brand and the management of their home stadium, Ford Field. This appointment marks a significant shift in the team's executive structure as they prepare for the 2026 campaign.

Haddad’s move across Detroit sports highlights his deep roots in the local market. As a native of Adrian, his familiarity with the regional sports landscape was cited as a key asset. He noted that the foundation built by the current administration provides a platform for continued development. The Lions organization confirmed that the search for Wood's successor has officially ended with this hire, ensuring executive stability before the upcoming season kicks off. Haddad's tenure with the Pistons concludes as he shifts his focus to the NFL landscape and the pursuit of a title for the city of Detroit.