Changing of the guard at Tepper Sports

Article posted by Coliseum, January 8^th, 2025

Image: Tepper Sports and Entertainment

Tepper Sports & Entertainment (TSE) have appointed Kristi Coleman as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer, while making a number of other leadership changes.

In her role, Coleman will oversee all TSE business operations. In addition, she will continue to serve as President of the Carolina Panthers. She will report directly to David Tepper, Owner and Executive Chairman.

The Charlotte Observer said the leadership transition is part of a broader strategic initiative to enhance organizational effectiveness and collaboration by streamlining operations.

The Carolina Panthers are a professional American football team based in Charlotte, North Carolina (US). The Panthers compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the league’s National Football Conference South division.

The Panthers play home games at the Bank of America Stadium, a 74,867-seat multipurpose stadium located on 33 acres in uptown Charlotte, North Carolina, United States. It is also the home to Charlotte FC of Major League Soccer (MLS).

David Tepper said, “Drawing on more than a decade of experience at this organization, Kristi is a proven leader with the insight and expertise to guide us through this pivotal moment in our evolution. Nicole and I are happy to have her in this expanded role.”

Coleman added, “Our strategy is to bring our people together, embrace modern solutions, and drive innovation at every level of the organization.

“By streamlining how we operate, we are not only meeting the demands of today but also setting the stage for future growth and success as we continue to deliver exceptional experiences for our staff, fans and partners.”

In addition, TSE has announced several organizational restructurings to position it for
sustained growth in a competitive sports and entertainment marketplace.

The organization will align all revenue-producing departments under the newly established role of Chief Revenue Officer, reporting directly to the CEO.

Coleman is currently leading the search for this new position, which is expected to be announced in the near future.

The organization will also establish a newly created Chief Business Officer role for Charlotte FC to lead all soccer business operations, replacing the club president title.

Joe LaBue will transition into a consultant role and the CBO will report directly to Coleman. Natalee Jarrett, current Vice President of Business Operations at Charlotte FC, will act as interim business lead for the Club during the CBO search.

David Nelson is being promoted into a new role of Vice President, Premium Sales & Services. Nelson will lead the strategy and development related to premium hospitality and business solutions across the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte FC and Bank of America Stadium.

He and his team will be responsible for delivering high-end experiences to customers for events at Bank of America Stadium. Nelson will report to the Chief Revenue Officer once that role is announced.

Bonnie Almond is being elevated to Vice President of Venue Operations, reporting to Chief Venues Officer Caroline Wright.

Almond brings over a decade of experience with the organization. In her role, Almond will oversee events and operations across TSE venues, as well as safety and security related to venues and events.

Bank of America Stadium upgrades

The Panthers last year revealed plans for a major redevelopment of Bank of America Stadium.

The renovation will enhance the fan and player experience, modernize infrastructure, and continue to deliver world-class sports and entertainment to Charlotte and the region for years to come, all while driving billions in economic impact for the city.

Following the upgrades, fans will enter the stadium through an inviting perimeter with a park-like setting and exterior video boards for watch parties and other viewing opportunities.

Once inside, they will experience the best in technology with a new state-of-the-art sound system, scoreboard, and video boards.

They will be able to enjoy exciting, unique social areas with skyline views, improved concessions with regional offerings, and an expanded Team Store to better accommodate Panthers and Charlotte FC fans.

Arts and culture elements will be infused throughout the design to reflect the vibrant culture across the Carolinas.

Other important elements include:

Brand-new seats installed throughout the bowl.
Improved accessibility throughout the facility, designed and constructed in a way that allows individuals with a range of disabilities to have access without barriers.
Stadium safety and security enhancements, including illuminated wayfinding and improved lighting.
A reimagined South Lawn Pavilion area that can be used as a community gathering spot and outdoor classroom on game days and non-event days.
Upgraded restrooms throughout the stadium for better sustainability, accessibility and speed of service.
Enhancements to the stadium exterior to reaffirm its place as an iconic, beloved fixture of the Charlotte skyline.
A reduction of the teams’ impact on the environment and demand on city infrastructure through the modernization of the building systems, including mechanical, plumbing, electrical and HVAC.

Construction is slated to start in 2026, with the renovations expected to be completed by 2029.

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