Full Breakdown
Detroit Lions Appoint Richard Haddad as President and CEO
8/6/2026, 11:44:01 AM
New Leadership Announcement
The Detroit Lions announced on Wednesday that Richard Haddad will become the franchise’s president and chief executive officer. Haddad, a native of Adrian, Michigan, joins the Lions after a 14-year tenure with Pistons Sports & Entertainment, where he most recently served as chief operating officer and chief legal officer. He is slated to assume his duties in early September, succeeding Rod Wood, who retired earlier this offseason after 11 seasons leading the Lions.
Background and Transition
Rod Wood announced his retirement in February and will remain on staff to aid the transition. The hiring committee—comprised of owner Sheila Hamp, vice chairman Bill Ford Jr., senior football advisor Chris Spielman, and chief people and inclusion officer Lindsay Verstegen—partnered with the search firm Russell Reynolds to identify a successor. Wood’s tenure included overseeing a $100 million renovation of Ford Field in 2017 and supporting the hiring of Brad Holmes as general manager and Dan Campbell as head coach in 2021.
Haddad’s Pistons experience includes guiding the team’s move back to Detroit, overseeing the construction of the Henry Ford Detroit Pistons Performance Center, and helping lead efforts to bring a WNBA franchise to Detroit with a planned riverfront practice facility.
Official Statements & Responses
Rod Wood expressed that his retirement allows him to spend more time with family while remaining available to support Haddad’s transition. Haddad, a lifelong Lions fan, thanked Hamp, the Ford family, and Pistons owners Tom Gores and Arn Tellem, noting his honor in leading the franchise and his intent to build on the foundation established by Wood, Holmes and Campbell.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am thrilled to join the Detroit Lions organization as its next President and CEO,” — Richard Haddad, new team president
- “Detroit declared bankruptcy within a year and a half of my moving here, which is probably the bottom,” — Richard Haddad, new team president
- “No one at the end of their life says, I wish I spent more time at work," Wood said this spring.” — Rod Wood
What’s Next
In his new role, Haddad will oversee all football and business operations, set the vision for the Lions and Ford Field, and work closely with owner Sheila Hamp as the team prepares for the 2026 season.
